Cooperation towards a common goal is the point of the game. Currently the only thing creating conflict or a reason to work together is the meteor. I think this would be interesting. I can understand why the devs dont want it in their game.
That is the point that creates least conflict, the way getting there is plastered with conflict though - economic, personal, governmental, area wise with settlements. Eco really has plenty enough conflict as is and introducing the option to just shoot your neighbor to "resolve" conflict is definitely not what Eco was made for.