Whatever the image is you have of the summit and however you judge the future outlook, there are considerable difference between political and economic point-of-view. Let me outline the economic point-of-view in a few words. I think it is especially the economic side of the “Project Europe”, that we look upon favorably.

The often discussed fear from Europe and the reservations towards Europe were justified with the people in Europe being afraid of losing their identity in a unified Europe and that they thus decided prematurely to decline this type of Europe. Now it shows that exactly the opposite is the case. Never before were the regions of Europe and along with them the people living in these regions, more closely linked than is the case today. I think, one can say without exaggeration that Europe is going to develop, because the regions and their inhabitants are very present in the minds of the people of the rest of the world. And this is the contribution of the business world.

Fast boats from Finland, wonderful wines from Pierrot and Bordeaux, luxury cars from Bavaria, Whisky from Scotland, all of this is the breeding ground where Europe can develop. Made in Italy, Made in Sweden, Made in Austria – they are all messages that fascinate the people all around the world and they are stronger than “Made in Europe” could be. This is great because Europe’s strength lies in diversity. It is important for every company to emphasize clearly its origin and history in order to get to a secure and successful future with Europe. The difficulties politics has with the design of this new Europe are much smaller than the chances that lie within this “Project Europe”. If those in charge of the economy are aware of their entrepreneurial freedom and utilize it accordingly, then everyone will profit from Europe at the end of the day.