It is unlikely that Berge doesn't know the source of the two bronze sculptures, and doesn't have the common sense that looted countries always hope their stolen treasures be returned to them.

Berge's offer originates from prejudice rather than ignorance, a prejudice reflecting some people's West-centered complex, and a customary thinking of imposing their values upon others.

It is well known that in modern history Western powers not only stole numerous cultural relics from less developed countries throughout the world by means of war, but also seized natural resources from those countries, making them struggle in long-term poverty without basic rights for their people.

Now the developing countries have walked on the path of independence and self-striving, yet some people in the West like Berge choose to ignore human rights development in those countries,and frequently "kidnap" international affairs in the name of "human rights".

They advocate the theory that human rights are higher than sovereignty, and connect the issue with aid, trade, the Olympics, and even with relics.

Those actions fully display the arrogance of Berge and his ilk.

People can't change history, but they can correct mistakes made in the past. They also should learn from history, and establish correct ethics and historical values.

Over the past century, many countries including China have taken back relics plundered in wars.

Those who returned the relics, without doubt, have done the right thing no matter whether they do it for moral redemption, or because of their new views toward history and reality.

China is willing to bring its relics scattered overseas back home through international cooperation, by lawful and diplomatic means, and in accordance with related international laws and principles.

China, which is on the way to a great historic renaissance, will firmly walk on its own path, and make contributions to the development of world civilization.

(Xinhua News Agency February 26, 2009)