Firstly, people take for granted that the E.U. has created the biggest economic space in the world.

Having viewed Europe as an extension and projection of itself, France now finds Europe developing a mind and identity of its own which embraces France but is not controlled by France.

I'm optimistic that we are actually seeing the opportunity of a generation being created in this.

We are intensely relaxed about people getting filthy rich.

What is most important for Europe is economic growth and jobs, security at home and safety in the world.

The last thing we need is to turn in on ourselves rather than face us up to what we have to do in the world.

Europe has to address people's needs directly and reflect their priorities, not our own preoccupations.