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GUANGZHOU: More than 200 Spanish enterprises and business organizations have confirmed their participation in China's largest expo for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Among the participants are leading brands like Telefonica of Spain and the Real Madrid Football Club, said Lin Ying, secretary-general of the China International Small and Medium Enterprises Fair that opens today in Guangzhou, capital city of Guangdong province.

A significant number of participants are involved in bio-tech, machine tools, information technology, agricultural products, energy and environmental protection, tourism, franchising and construction, as well as education.

Highlighted products on display from Spain, the co-host for this year's fair, include olive oil and red wine

"The Spanish delegation will also arrange a matchmaking event to promote bilateral trade and economic ties between SMEs from both sides," Lin said.

More than 1,900 domestic SMEs have applied to attend the matchmaking event at the fair to seek business opportunities with Spanish counterparts, Lin said.

Juan Manuel Ortega y Diaz Ambrona, commercial and economic counselor of Spain, said Spanish companies have been especially ambitious to forge ties with Chinese counterparts since the global financial crisis began last year.

"We are in a critical period. Spanish SMEs are driving a boat along a river that connects them to China," he explained.

（英语点津 Helen 编辑）

About the broadcaster:

Chantal Anderson is a multimedia journalist at the China Daily Web site. Originally from Seattle, Washington she has found her way around the world doing photo essays in Greece, Mexico and Thailand. She is currently completing a double degree in Journalism and International Studies from the University of Washington.