Different Voices
"Germany is, as in 1949, at a decisive crossroads. In 1949 the choice was about our country's reconstruction. In 2005, it is about our country's renewal." Angela Merkel, the centre-right candidate for the German chancellorship.
"The Commission, the member states and the Chinese all bear some responsibility for this situation, but nobody in particular is to blame."
Peter Mandelson, European commissioner for trade, on the difficulties with textile imports from China.
"I find such an offer illegitimate and immoral." Abdullah Gül, Turkish foreign minister, rejecting the idea of a special partnership with the EU as an alternative to membership.
"It is a legitimate demand. It is made out of concern, because France does not want to start a new crisis in Europe." Philippe Douste-Blazy, French foreign minister, requesting that Turkey clarify its position on recognising Cyprus.
August 31, 2005 5:00 pm CET