San Bruno, Calif. - Google's YouTube video-sharing service on Tuesday announced plans to launch localized versions of its site in foreign countries, and said local language sites launched today in Brazil, England, France, Ireland, Italy and Japan.

The local site launches are aimed at establishing YouTube -- which already draws over half of its audience from overseas -- as a brand in foreign markets where other video-sharing sites are gaining in popularity.

The company has already signed content partnerships with foreign broadcasters including the BBC, France 24, Spain's Antena 3 and Cuatro TV, Portugal's RTP and Holland's VPRO and NPO.

"YouTube will now be more accessible and interesting to a worldwide audience, and we look forward to rolling out in other countries in the months to come," said YouTube co-founder and CEO Chad Hurley.

Related Links:
http://www.youtube.com/press_room_entry?entry=sbopYZ18uVQ

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19303271/ (Financial Times)

http://www.youtube.co.uk