During the period, CAF contributed to the gradual recovery of the region's economies and helped to relieve signs of social instability that had been present in several countries. In so doing, the Corporation consolidated its countercyclical role as the Andean countries' principal provider of multilateral financing, while enhancing its catalytic role with the launching of new products and services with a high value added that brought an increased diversification of funding sources into the region. Regional integration was given a powerful impetus, particularly in relation to the development of sustainable infrastructure and logistics for South America, in line with the agreements arising out of the Presidential Summit in Brasilia. Steps were taken to increase the region's competitiveness so that it can become engaged in the globalization process in a more efficient, equitable and environmentally sustainable manner. Special attention was also devoted to programs concerned with sustainable human development, to bolster the search for more equitable, participatory and cohesive societies.