I hope that my government can help change Italian mentality.

There is no government in Europe where ministers go through that kind of confirmation process, which in fact is modeled on the way the U.S. cabinet members are confirmed.

My aspiration is not to be loved. It is that my government be respected and credible.

The Italian economy has been held back for decades.

As to the question of elected or not elected, each member of the European Commission has been appointed jointly by the governments of the 15 member states, and undergone individual scrutiny and a vote of confidence from the European Parliament.

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

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