KUALA LUMPUR, July 23: Iranian President Mohammad Khatami on Tuesday called on Islamic nations to cooperate in building a strong global economic force and said one of Iran’s most important strategic policies was to enhance its links with Asian countries.

Addressing business leaders on the second day of a visit to Malaysia, a fellow oil and gas producing Muslim state, Khatami suggested the formation of “new commonwealth unions” to maximise cooperation and enhance economic benefits.

He said the “clustered countries” would then enjoy stronger international standing.

In this regard, the Islamic countries, which have a great deal in common, are in a better position to benefit from such cooperation, he said.

Khatami first proposed the formation of an “Islamic union” during talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday.

The Iranian president said such unions would require a new framework of cooperation in international relations.

The process of dialogue among civilizations and cultures is one of the prerequisites of such collaboration among countries with common interests.

Khatami said one of the most important strategic policies of Iran is the expanded and enhanced cooperation with Asian countries, adding that improved links with Malaysia were a core move towards its realization.

The Iranian leader has overseen the signing of agreements on taxation and investment with Malaysia as well as memorandums of understanding involving tourism, women’s affairs, trade, and technology.—AFP