I am grateful to the Germans in general, particularly those who displayed unending dedication to the refugees and who continue to do so.

Now Europe are experiencing a wave of eroding solidarity, first of certain societies and then entire governments. At the same time, we have two giant new challenges to meet: the migration movement and terror. And then Great Britain is thinking about leaving the EU. That should suffice as a description.

A joint European army is a very far-reaching proposal and it would be difficult to implement. Such initiatives are nevertheless needed.

The question of societal fairness is always pertinent.

I would never attack somebody only because they belong to a different party.

If we no longer judge the content of people's actions, but merely their form, then we are entering dangerous times indeed.

The quota idea is a good one, but there are two problems with it. The first is clear: A quota system would also require all European countries to be prepared to take refugees. And secondly: What happens when the quota has been filled? Would we then simply tell those who are threatened, sorry but we have to send you back?