Metz The difficulties encountered by the iron and steel industry, and the coal mines on which the wealth of Lorraine was built, have brought about economic problems and the region is now engaged in a far-reaching program of industrial reconversion and diversification of activities in Metz, the regional capital and in Nancy, the university centre. Traditionally an agricultural area, it has been affected by the exodus of its rural population. It is now undergoing a marked economic recovery. In recent years, it has had to cope with the closure of mines, the decline of the steel industry and the problems of the textile industry. In spite of this, the region which has long been an area of vast economic potential is developing modern industries and intends to take full advantage of the new opportunities offered by the Channel tunnel and the TGV-Nord high speed train service.
Tourism is significant, especially along the coastline.
Lower Normandy also has two seaports Cherbourg and Caen, providing regular services with the United Kingdom. Nantes The region holds second place in France in terms of agricultural production and first place for livestock breeding. The hub of its activity is the Nantes-Saint Nazaire port complex, the fourth largest in France. Picardy intends taking full advantage of its pivotal geographical position. The region owes its wealth to its Mediterranean coastline, its excellent climate and its natural beauty.