Regional cooperation will enhance sustainable development in east Asian countries, said Mahathir Mohamad, former Malaysian Premier at the opening session of the 21st Century Forum held in Beijing on Monday.

As the most dynamic organization of developing countries, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) represents not only a huge market, but also a major manufacturer of commodities and industrial goods.

"Combining southeast Asia with northeast Asia will form a strong economic group which can compete with the European Union and the North America Free Trade Agreement," the former premier said.

Despite the mistrust and differences among some countries in the region, Mahathir said, cooperation, rather than wars, can make east Asia exert an active influence in regional issues and world affairs. As a reward, it will be more possible for east Asian countries to maintain sustainable development.

Source: Xinhua