ation
through the university level and subsidizes rice and housing.
Brunei's leaders are concerned that steadily increased integration
in the world economy will undermine internal social cohesion,
although it became a more prominent player by serving as chairman
for the 2000 APEC (Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation) forum. Plans
for the future include upgrading the labor force, reducing
unemployment, strengthening the banking and tourist sectors, and, in
general, further widening the economic base beyond oil and gas.

Bulgaria
Bulgaria, a former communist country striving to enter the
European Union, has experienced macroeconomic stability and strong
growth since a major economic downturn in 1996 led to the fall of
the then socialist government. As a result, the government became
committed to economic reform and responsible fiscal planning.
Minerals, including coal, copper, and zinc play an important role in
industry. In 1997, macroeconomic stability was reinforced by the
imposition of a fixed exchange rate of the lev against the German
D-mark and the negotiation of an IMF standby agreement. Low
inflation and steady progress on structural reforms improved the
business environment; Bulgaria has averaged 4% growth since 2000 and
has begun to attract significant amounts of foreign direct
investment. Corruption in the public administration, a weak
judiciary, and the presence of organized crime remain the largest
challenges for Bulgaria.

Burkina Faso
One of the poorest countries in the world, landlocked
Burkina Faso has few natural resources and a weak industrial base.
About 90% of the population is engaged in subsistence agriculture,
which is vulnerable to harsh climatic conditions. Cotton is the key
crop and the government has joined with other cotton producing
countries in the region to lobby for improved access to Western
markets. GDP growth has largely been driven by increases in world
cotton prices. Industry remains dominated by unprofitable
government-controlled corporations. Following the African franc
currency devaluation in January 1994 the government updated its
development program in conjunction with international agencies;
exports and economic growth have increased. The government devolved
macroeconomic policy and inflation targeting to the West African
regional central bank (BCEAO), but maintains control over
microeconomic policie