'The EU tries to be even-handed, but this is difficult. We cannot afford to be dreamers'

'There is no question that these films and plays are offensive... disrespectful, unnecessary and wrong. I am against the preaching of hatred, but no European government, nor the EU... can control the media'

'Differences in opinion are understandable, but are not insurmountable'

'It is often difficult to achieve unanimity... Our diversity is our strength'