10th February 2010. COFIDES and IPEX signed a partnership agreement in order to strenghten cooperation as a means of supporting companies from Castilla-la Mancha to expand in foreign markets. The agreement was signed by Remedios Romeo (COFIDES Chaiwoman) and María Luisa Araújo, (IPEX Chairwoman and Vicepresident for Economy and Finance in the regional government of Castilla La Mancha).

The partnership agreement ensures a commitment from both institutions to promote their support when a company seeks to establish abroad. Indeed, IPEX will promote the financial instruments and resources managed by COFIDES, especially FIEX and FONPYME. Activities and seminars will be held to promote instruments and services provided by both institutions. Among the areas of cooperation covered by the partnership agreement will be the financial support provided jointly by both institutions to ensure the success of the international investment projects developed by companies.

> IPEX is the Foreign Trade Promotion Institute of Castilla-La Mancha. The Institute was established in 2002 to promote and foster international businesses in the region; to assist companies from Castilla La Mancha that expand abroad; and to cooperate with public and private entities involved in foreign trade.