Iraq has deprived him of both international credibility and the military forces to do more.
Berlusconi's already low international credibility fell further in 2011 during the European sovereign-debt crisis.
His speech enhanced his international credibility, but at a seemingly high price, so far, in domestic support.
"Never have we had the international credibility we now have, after just five months of government."
But leaders of clean, elected administrations, with genuine international credibility, are still thin on the ground.
"But I think we could also lose international credibility."
They also see the program as essential for restoring Liberia's international credibility.
If the European Union wants international credibility, it has to keep to its promises.
The international credibility of the Union is at stake.
But in the long run, the Taliban will have to build international credibility, he said.