Quotes from Francois Hollande

We find ourselves in a difficult situation in Europe. There's a crisis, weak growth, unemployment... my duty is to ensure that by the end of my mandate France is in a better state than it was at the beginning.

I commit myself to serve my country.

Our enemy in Syria is Daesh: it's not about containing but destroying this organisation.

If I become president, France will not continue with the same policies as under Nicolas Sarkozy - both in domestic policy and in foreign and European policy.

The first time that I went to the United States was in 1974. I was 20 years old. America was in crisis.

The transatlantic relationship is vital for both our countries: France will remain a reliable ally of the United States. Nevertheless, ally does not mean aligned.

We need intelligence services to fight against terrorism, but they have to respect the principles of good relationships between allies and protect personal, confidential data.

What is happening in the Sahel for the past several months is that terrorists have structured themselves, have installed themselves. It's not simply a menace for west Africa.

There's always a risk when the candidate becomes president: Will he deliver what is expected of him?

France has been struck on the day of her national holiday - the 14th of July, Bastille Day - the symbol of liberty, because human rights are denied by fanatics, and France is clearly their target.

My dear citizens, fellow citizens, French people, this 6th of May, have just chosen change by bringing me the presidency of the French republic. I feel the honor, which has been given to me and the task, the important task faced beyond - in front of you to serve my country.

The British people have decided to leave. It is a sad decision but one which I respect. The vote puts the European Union in difficulties. It must recognise its shortfalls.

Germany and France are pinning their hopes on young people, in terms of education, science and innovation.

I will not give way because too many previous governments have backed down.

My mission is to put France back on its feet. The priority is employment. Efforts have to be made, but those efforts must be made fairly.

Private life is always, at certain times, a challenge.

My policies are producing results and will produce even more.

There must be protection of the external borders.

Be happy, be proud, be generous, be respectful, be proud to be French citizens.

Austerity need not be Europe's fate.

My adversary is the world of finance.

Everyone must be in the same competitive situation, including on the fiscal level.

Whoever pays should control; whoever pays should sanction. I agree. But budgetary union should be completed by a partial mutualisation of debts through eurobonds.

People are tired of constant movement, improvisation, and wild scrambling when plans fail.