The international economic crisis and the decline of industrial production are causing a global recession that affects both the world economy and national economies;
The impact of the crisis is even more serious in territories suffering from weaknesses and where the development process is incomplete;
In such vulnerable territories it is important to restore areas of potential growth which could constitute the factors of stability necessary to boost the development process;
Reinforcing each territory's endogenous potential does not require the mobilisation of new financial strategies. It is necessary to enhance and make innovative use of resources such as educated young people, women, culture and ancient crafts and traditions. They could constitute a source of "niche” production activities and wealth in today’s globalised markets;
The Parliamentary Assembly should contribute to identifying ways of mitigating the disastrous effects of the current economic crisis and foster debate among member states on these opportunities already open to them.