Europe's relationship with business. This needs to be rethought and recast. Recast on the basis of a clear understanding of the roles that both business and Governments at both national and EU level can and should play in the economy. I firmly believe that the best way to address inequality and social exclusion has to be to create a more affluent, more successful Europe with opportunities for everyone to fulfill their full potential. Opportunities that come with the success of European business in our home markets and abroad.
Businesses create jobs and wealth.
Entrepreneurs take risks in the face of uncertainty and open up new markets. Governments should and must not hinder them, but work to ensure the market functions properly and contributes to a strong, just and fair society. Faced with such global instability and increasing competition, Governments cannot afford to take business for granted, to burden business with red-tape and high taxes, or to erect barriers to trade. But Government can create an environment which ensures economic stability and in which markets can function efficiently. An environment in which growth and employment go hand in hand.