Angela Merkel

For me, it was clear that the euro would fail if we didn’t act.

We can do this.

When I say that we in Germany have to reduce our CO2 emissions by 40 percent by 2020, I’m not saying that because I love the environment so much, but because I believe it will ensure our economic survival.

I grew up in East Germany. I know what it’s like when a state watches its citizens.

The euro is much more than a currency. It is the symbol of European unity.

I am not a woman who is easily intimidated.

I am not a person who makes big gestures.

I am not a person who likes to be in the spotlight.

I am not a person who likes to talk about myself.

I am not a person who likes to make a big deal out of things.

I am not a person who likes to make a catastrophe.

The euro is our common destiny. If the euro fails, then Europe fails.

We can do it! We have already managed so much, we will manage this too.

The internet is 'neuland' (uncharted territory) for us all.

We need to explain to people that a decision for Europe is not a decision against Germany.

I am a physicist. I am used to looking at things objectively.

If we now start to apologize for showing a friendly face in an emergency situation, then that is not my country.

I will stick to my path. I am convinced that it is the right one.

Germany will not be blackmailed.

Sometimes I feel like I'm walking through a minefield.