Lech Walesa

I realize that the strivings of the Polish people gave rise, and still do so, to the feelings of understanding and solidarity all over the world.

I belong to a nation which over the past centuries has experienced many hardships and reverses. The world reacted with silence or with mere sympathy when Polish frontiers were crossed by invading armies and the sovereign state had to succumb to brutal force.

We were hoping Obama would reclaim moral leadership for America. That failed.

We have travelled so far in our technical advancements that we are no longer located in our own countries.

I cannot stand for more than half an hour in one place.

The defense of our rights and our dignity, as well as efforts never to let ourselves to be overcome by the feeling of hatred - this is the road we have chosen.

This conviction brought me, in the summer of 1978, to the Free Trade Unions - formed by a group of courageous and dedicated people who came out in the defense of the workers' rights and dignity.

Democracy is made up of three elements. One is whether the laws support pluralistic principles. The second is whether the people take advantage of these laws. The third element is whether the peoples' wallets are thick enough to benefit from this democracy.

I am happy that Poland is returning to the road of pluralism and democracy.

One could always do more, faster and cleverer, but democracy has its own rhythm.

I made the right decisions, I set everything on the right course, the reforms are going in the right direction.

For now, capitalism is working to produce more money but does not see the people. This problem is getting worse across the world.