Angela Merkel

“Free access to the single market will be granted to a country which accepts the four fundamental freedoms of movement of people, goods, services, and capital.”

“We will have to accept a certain degree of legal immigration; that's globalisation... In the era of the smartphone, we cannot shut ourselves away... people know full well how we live in Europe.”

“I said, yet again, for Germany, Europe is not only indispensable, it is part and parcel of our identity. We've always said German unity, European unity and integration, that's two parts of one and the same coin. But we want, obviously, to boost our competitiveness.”

“It's my damn duty and obligation to do everything possible for Europe to find a united path.”

“During the course of 1989, more and more East Germans lost their fears of the state's repression and chicanery and went out on the streets. There was no turning back then. It is thanks to their courage the Wall was opened.”

“I see nothing that points to a recession in Germany. But I see considerable long-term tasks ahead of us that have to do with markets regaining confidence in Europe and that have a lot to do with reducing debt.”

“We've always had this experience that things take long, but I'm 100% convinced that our principles will in the end prevail. No one knew how the Cold War would end at the time, but it did end. This is within our living experience... I'm surprised at how fainthearted we sometimes are and how quickly we lose courage.”

“Overcoming the Cold War required courage from the people of Central and Eastern Europe and what was then the German Democratic Republic, but it also required the steadfastness of Western partner over many decades when many had long lost hope of integration of the two Germanys and Europe.”

“Very early, it became clear to me that East Germany could not function.”

“More reforms will give more impetus to German industries to invest in India. German companies want to be treated on par with Indian companies, and creation of an equitable market is crucial for investments.”

“I am for registered civil partnerships.”

“There are 1600 German companies active in India, and some of them are more than 100 years old. Our companies value India as a location for manufacturing and as a market.”

“Germany wants peaceful coexistence of Muslims and members of other religions.”

“We needed 40 years to overcome East Germany. Sometimes in history, one has to be prepared for the long haul and not ask after four months if it still makes sense to keep up our demands.”

“We feel bound to the Christian image of humanity - that is what defines us. Those who do not accept this are in the wrong place here.”

“Russia has nothing: no successful politics or economy.”

“Industrialised countries must take the responsibility of helping poorer countries in the climate change action plan.”

“Former president Wulff said Islam belongs to Germany. That is true. I also hold this opinion.”

“In Europe it is particularly important that we build good relations to everyone who holds political responsibility because Europe can only be build together.”

“Germany has become a country that many people abroad associate with hope.”