A lot of the American press at the time was saying 'just watch what happens when Bertelsmann tries to buy EMI, that will be a moment of truth that will show the Commission's true colors.' Well, that deal never happened either.

Growth in any individual European country has to be the result of policies for growth pursued in that country consistent with budgetary discipline.

The two greatest priorities for my government are tackling tax evasion and corruption.

Europe has to avoid old prejudices and new ones. That means north versus south, rich versus poor.

Italy needed structural reforms to become more competitive.

I am certain that most Germans have instinctive liking for Italy, just as Italians admire Germans for their many qualities.

I hope that my government can help change Italian mentality.