Economical situation of Thuringia - Representation and reality (ePub)

Seminar paper from the year 2002 in the subject Economics - Case Scenarios, grade: 2,3 (B), University of Kassel (FB Business english), language: English, abstract: Introduction

Free state Thuringia - mentioned the strong middle of Germany or also the green heart of Germany. Nevertheless, is this also valid for the economical aspect of the country? Can Thuringia really keep up with the other federal states or be designated even as the economically strong middle of Germany? Be called as the heart of Germany, without which the circuit of the economy would stop turning?

" This state has always offered something special. Thuringia has always been involved in research and modern technology concerning cars, optical instruments, office machines, medical science, or famous colleges and universities. (...) The state`s efficient traffic links are being extended on a continuous basis. They have converted Thuringia into a hub of trade routes and into an advantageous location for national and international business activities, which take advantage of the state`s central position both in Germany and in the expanded European Union. (...) ... intensive research and development activities conducted with a view to satisfying business needs in addition to an efficient system for knowledge transfer have led to the creation of products which are often unique on the market.
A state policy consistently geared to business needs, development organizations run by the state, and practical promotion activities have been instrumental in creating an innovative dynamism in business life which is attracting new companies, and provides room for many different projects in the state`s budding economy...
(Franz Schuster - minister of Thuringia for economy, employment and infrastructure; Pamphlet of the ministry)

These are the words of a minister making propaganda for his state, covered by a pamphlet with inviting pictures.
I would like to consider this statement from several point of views and try to find out whether it`s a realistic representation.
On the one hand the overall economy of the state ( also in comparison with other states ) and on the other hand individual sections will be analyzed in order to prove or refute this .