In the darkest days of European history, America stood close by us and today we stand close by America. Nothing will ever be the same.

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

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.

Our continents unification is at hand and we must stand to account.

We are involved in a constitution-building process of historic importance. The Convention should mark a new stage in European integration.

I don't want to pass a punitive law, or use politics as a vendetta.

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?