Protectionism will only worsen the global economy and promoting free trade is the best option, says an article in People's Daily (excepts below).

China and Iceland have vowed to deepen cooperation and singed a free trade agreement on Apr 15. This is the first agreement between China and a European county. 　

China and Iceland have different economic systems, scales and models. Their agreement demonstrates all countries can join hands together. There are no limits to peaceful development and win-win cooperation. Lackluster global economic growth can only be boosted by the cooperation of different countries.

China has given as much help as it can to European countries affected by the sovereign debt crisis, and has displayed a spirit of assistance and cooperation.

Opening up to the outside world benefits all countries. This is not only the true for China, but for all countries. Iceland, as a small economy, can build up free trade with China.

Sticking to free trade is the right choice for a country to overcome difficulties. China hopes the other developed countries can abandon trade protectionism measures.

In the globalized era, no country can realize balanced development with closed doors. Only through offering the world more chances for development can countries drive development.