But this research also shows that other factors, such as government economic policies, local enterprise, the efficiency of public administration and the amount of foreign direct investment are just as important in raising economic performance.

ECONOMIST: European regional aid

Unlike a speech earlier this month in which he dismissed the importance of conservation, Cheney said efforts to promote energy efficiency were "an important part" of the administration's proposal.

CNN: House Democrats ready to battle Bush on energy

The winding down of the Iraq war also will save money, Orszag says, adding that the administration is poring over the budget in search of efficiency gains.

NPR: OMB's Orszag Backs Deficit Cut Despite Spending

The Portuguese administration says it has now done much to improve the efficiency of its law enforcement: streamlining the police force, rooting out corrupt officials and arresting the five main triad heads in Macau.

ECONOMIST: Macau: Taking a gamble | The