Are we all clear that we want to build something that can aspire to be a world power - not just a trading bloc, but a political entity?

The EU must take on new responsibilities. And these new responsibilities call for intensifying the integration process.

The problem of Italy is not really a question of age. Japan has an older population, and it is now in full economic recovery. The problem is that Italy is old in the structure of the society.

Italy is divided between us and them, rich and poor, north and south, young and old, employed and unemployed.

It is becoming more widely acknowledged that it is better to have a good constitution than not having a perfect one.

So when you are faced with a decision on the euro, it is not surprising that many people are confused. They still try to squeeze the euro debate into the old language. But deep down it is a matter of deciding where one's future lies. It is a matter of political will and courage.

I am sure the euro will oblige us to introduce a new set of economic policy instruments. It is politically impossible to propose that now. But some day there will be a crisis and new instruments will be created.