Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's speech outlines a strategic vision of road map for the economy recovery, said Fidel. V. Ramos, the former president of the Philippines，on Saturday afternoon.

"The five-point proposal on strengthening Asian cooperation made by Premier Wen is very enlightening, and it outlines a strategic, visionary and long-term road map for the economy recovery," said Ramos, who is also Chairman of the Board of Directors of Boao Forum for Asia during an exclusive interview with Xinhuanet.

Ramos stressed that "Wen's speech sent a very important message that confidence is better than currency and gold."

"It is very helpful, which benefits all people in entire Asia- Pacific region and those in Europe and America, as well as those in Africa," added Ramos.

On Saturday morning, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao gave a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of annual conference of the Boao Forum for Asia 2009, during which Wen made the 5-point proposal on enhancing Asian cooperation in various fields.

"Looking at our Asian neighbors, it is worth noting that most Asian economies remain in good shape," said Ramos, giving an example in China, "China's massive stimulus package is being implemented at an extraordinary speed. Local governments are already re-starting projects, so the impact of government policy is already being felt."

Ramos said he looked forward to Chinese economy to "become an engine for the economy recovery not only in Asia-Pacific region, but also for that in the rest of the world, especially in our neighborhood, such as Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, and Central-east Asia, including the Philippines."

"Do not let your neighbor collapse," which is recognized as Ramos' motto, has gained positive responses from politicians, entrepreneurs and academics who are here attending the forum.

Ramos explained, "This is our culture in the Philippines. We say it in a specific way that 'Prosper Thy Neighbor,' which means if you do something favorable for your neighbor, it prospers your neighbor, and namely, it means your neighbor is capable of becoming prosperous."

"The global community is a huge neighborhood. As good neighbors, we would not like to see our neighbors (economies) deteriorate or fail, because if so, we may also be affected," Ramos further explained, adding, "During this very trying time, teamwork is the answer to finding a way out."

Ramos suggested that developing countries and emerging economies need to unite and come up with coordinated approach to curb "the impact of collapse of highly developed economies."

He finally called for deeper cooperation and collaboration amongst Asian countries on regional investment and common security.

"I believe that Asia will emerge from this crisis in good shape," said Ramos at the end of the interview.

(Xinhua News Agency April 19, 2009)