Despite its fabulous potential wealth, Congo itself was nearly bled dry by the time this latest war broke out.
Recall that if an individual has purchased a contract ((widetilde{P},c)), his potential wealth outcomes are (s=w-ell -widetilde{P}+c) if sick, and (n=w-widetilde{P}) if healthy.
The region, with its potential energy wealth, is an element of rising concern as America urges NATO to focus on energy security issues involving Russian dominance of Europe's source of supply.
Aside from oil, much of Iraq's potential wealth, and its employment base, lies in its state-owned enterprises, including cement, fertilizer, phosphate and chemical companies.
As exasperated mediators have concluded, there is not much scope for compromise a pity, given that Abkhazia's snowcapped mountains, fertile plains and balmy coast make an idyllic setting, with much potential wealth for its owners, if ever it is decided who they are.
The country's deep social inequities, despite the potential wealth of its diamonds, have been the rallying cry for the rebels in this war.
And all this is happening, tragically, in a country whose size and potential wealth could make it a powerful positive influence in its region, in the manner of the newly democratic South Africa.
As governments and energy companies froth at the mouth contemplating the potential wealth of these regions, it would be wise to consider what would be lost forever by the plunder of these spectacular and fragile regions.
