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

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.

If Spain goes under, Italy will come under even more scrutiny.

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.

Italy needed structural reforms to become more competitive.

It is rather unusual for Italy to be at the forefront of pro-market initiatives.

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