Barcelona is showcasing its distinctive architecture, culinary specialties, and development projects at the ninth China International Import Expo in Shanghai. Its pavilion, located in the expo's "Charming Sister Cities" zone, marks 25 years of friendship-city ties between Barcelona and Shanghai.

Xavier Paton Morales, director of Barcelona's Department of Economic Promotion, Tourism, International Relations, and Sports, said that the pavilion offers Chinese visitors a taste of what the city has to offer, from Spanish cured ham to the Gracia Festival, a popular neighborhood celebration.

The 25-year friendship-city relationship has also provided a platform for cultural exchange. In September, Shanghai brought a taste of its local culture to Barcelona through performances at the city's La Merce Festival.

Paton Morales said the performances left a lasting impression on local audiences. "We were able to enjoy many aspects of Shanghai's culture at its very best," he said.

Beyond celebrating its longstanding ties with Shanghai, Barcelona is also using the expo to promote its business strengths.

Spain is one of the theme countries for this year's "Big Market for All: Export to China" initiative at the CIIE.

Paton Morales said Barcelona's talent pool and strengths in innovation made the city a gateway for Chinese companies looking to expand in Europe.

He also hoped the expo would help more Spanish companies find opportunities in China.

Making his first visit to the CIIE, Paton Morales said he had read about the fair before arriving but was still impressed by the breadth of opportunities on display. He said the expo could give businesses in both countries a clearer picture of what each market offers and where they could work together.

"The fair can build a bridge between our two economies and bring out the best in each," he added.