Google engine to power China.com online searches (AFP)

SAN FRANCISCO (AFP) - Google technology will power China.com's online search engine under the terms of a partnership announced.

In Google's most comprehensive business alliance since entering the China market, the Internet juggernaut will support China.com searches for online content in English and traditional Chinese, the companies said in a release.

"China is a key area of focus for Google and we are rapidly expanding our presence and operations in this important market," said Johnny Chou, Google president of sales and business development in Greater China.

"We are excited about our partnership with China.com and we expect our current partnership to bring significant strategic benefits. We are also looking forward to exploring further areas where our companies cooperate."

China.com said it was one of China's first Internet portals and had launched a group of websites designed to help global businesses access increasingly affluent consumers in China.

China.com and Google will cooperate regarding branding, content and advertising, according to the companies.

"China.com firmly believes that this partnership between the world's premier search company and one of China's leading portals with over 5 million daily users is a perfect fit," said website executive director Chen Xiaowei.

"By harnessing Google's innovative technology to China.com's deep understanding of the China market, we can rapidly expand the user base and generate new revenue opportunities for both companies."

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