Havana – Indonesian President Abdurrahman Wahid in his address during the opening of Group of 77 (G-77) Summit here has stressed the importance of co-operation among South countries for the development of economy and democracy.

The G-77 Summit was opened here on Wednesday by the group's chairman, President Olesegun Obasandjo of Nigeria. According to Wahid, G-77 member countries are facing problems, not only among themselves but also in relation to developed countries in the North, which would hamper progress. G-77 member countries should help one another, Wahid said.

On the occasion, Wahid underscored the urgency for co-operation in promoting South solidarity. "We should work hand-in-hand to overcome difficult situations," he said.

The G-77 groups developing nations and the summit will end today. The opening day featured Cuban President Fidel Castro and United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan as well as presentations by other countries.