In a period when general economic slowdown is the main problem and when inflation is not likely to be a continuing threat, the euro area -- the second-largest economic area in the world -- needs to become part of the solution rather than part of the problem.

When you have the global fire department and there are no fires, then you're not so busy.

There has to be an understanding that further strengthening of the yen at this stage could be damaging to Japan's economy.

We do not yet see clear evidence that we have got a turning point in Japan, ... We need a little bit more information that the bottom has occurred.

The markets have pushed the euro somewhat too low relative to fundamentals.

They don't need to do it tomorrow, but they can't wait until the end of the year.

We have a policy that is adding to, adding to, the systemic risk by subsidizing investors to take greater risks.

I used to say it was more an embarrassment than a problem, but now I would say it's a problem.

We need to get the U.S. economy to slow down and, in the meantime, we'll need someone to pick up the slack, ... That could be in the euro area. I think the (European Central Bank) needs to pay specific attention to what's happening both within and beyond their borders.