‘Today’s Europe requires responsible fiscal policy. Its essence is very simple: to live within our means. Yes, such decisions are very difficult, and yes, they are sometimes painful. […] At this point I would like to highlight the significant contribution made by Germany and its people as they took on the leadership in search of the necessary decisions at European level. It is a historic role, a genuine example of responsible politics. Today Germany plays the leading role in ensuring European stability and does not allow us to wander from the path of trust in Europe. That is why it is Germany which gets the strongest criticism – and also our deepest respect.’