In Italy, after stagnating in 2005, the economy now shows some signs of recovery.

There is a recovery, it's doubtless under way. There are signs that indicate that the economy is improving.

I didn't speak Italian when I got to Italy. I had taken a couple of lessons and did a year in college, but in six months, I became regionally submersed to the point that I can curse in dialect.

Interest rates do not have to be identical across the whole euro area, but it is unacceptable if major differences arise from broken capital markets or concern about a euro area break-up.

I trust the people who are working with me. I delegate.

Governments must commit to sound economic and financial policies. This is how we ensure reform in the euro area - and our independence.