Fostering cooperation

The developing countries are beginning to stir and are finding their own, relatively effective, ways to attain greater welfare for their people. This goal is being pursued through cooperation and by forming groups on the basis of proximity within their regions, economic interest and idealism.

Experience gained so far in relation to the industrial countries and with their respective private sectors has opened their eyes to the need of new steps to be taken.

The formation of the D-8 grouping comprising Indonesia, Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, Malaysia, Egypt, Bangladesh and Nigeria can be seen as an effort to anticipate an increasingly complex world.

We hope the eight signatory countries in the accord will be able to realize the schemes that have been agreed upon, work hard toward their common goal and maintain the momentum.

The dawning free trade era brings both opportunities and challenges. We expect that not all countries in the world will be able to benefit from the opportunities that are presented. The problem is that not all countries move from the same starting point or are endowed with equal capabilities. A few countries are certain to be left behind.

It is not a utopian undertaking to encourage all countries to try to reap the benefits which free trade brings. It is the duty of all the civilized countries to encourage cooperation. It is fortunate that our country is one of those countries.

-- Bisnis Indonesia, Jakarta