The past seven years have clearly demonstrated that it is possible for the two sides to navigate difficulties via candid dialogue, and come to agreements on their shared interests. The two sides should summon similar political wisdom and courage to bring the treaty back to the right course.

by Xinhua writers Ma Qian, Zhang Xin

BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) -- A politically motivated decision made by the European Parliament on Thursday to freeze the ratification of a bilateral investment treaty with Beijing does not conform to their shared interests, and once again exposes some European politicians' deep-seated prejudice towards China.

However, the European Union (EU) should join China in making sure that their mutually beneficial cooperation can always move forward in the right direction, instead of being consumed by ego and bigotry.

First and foremost, media reports said the decision demands that China lift its sanctions on several European individuals and entities.

The truth is that China took those moves as legitimate and necessary countermeasures. Brussels first imposed sanctions against the Chinese side based on unwarranted accusations over the so-called human rights issue in Xinjiang. China has to act.

Reaching the landmark China-EU investment pact is no easy feat. It has taken seven long years and 35 rounds of talks for the two sides to complete its negotiations late last year. It is fairly unfortunate for the hard-won progress to come to a sudden halt.

Also, the treaty is not a "gift" given by one party to the other. The deal will benefit both sides, not just China. For the record, the treaty has promised European businesses broader market access in sectors like financial services, and a fairer investment environment in China.

The uncertain future of the pact will simply disappoint those in Europe who eagerly want a share of the business opportunities available in the ever-opening Chinese market.

Over the years, China and the EU have always been each other's important partner for practical cooperation. Moreover, since the establishment of their diplomatic ties, the two sides have faced all sorts of challenges, yet their relationship has always managed to move forward.

For the moment, the two sides must work together to overcome all kinds of obstacles in the treaty's ratification process, given the complex international political landscape. The good news is that there are still many rational voices supporting the treaty.

China, as always, has the sincerity and willingness to enhance win-win cooperation with the EU. It is hoped that Brussels can discard its political prejudice towards China, gain a clear understanding of the mutually beneficial nature of bilateral cooperation, and properly manage its differences with Beijing.

The past seven years have clearly demonstrated that it is possible for the two sides to navigate difficulties via candid dialogue, and come to agreements on their shared interests. The two sides should summon similar political wisdom and courage to bring the treaty back to the right course. ■