The Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) is expected to sign a partnership agreement with the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC) that will result in the sharing of research across numerous sporting disciplines.

The agreement—which will be signed early next year— will also involve the sharing of coaching expertise, medical science, anti-doping and marketing knowledge.

Christopher Samuda, president of the JOA, explained that Jamaica and Japan by nature of alphabetical order are immediate neighbours at international congresses be it Olympic or Paralympic.

“So it was for us a natural progression to express our friendship and mutual understanding and respect not only with a pat on the back but in ink on the dotted line,” said Samuda.

The

two National Olympic Committees will also facilitate co-operation between

provincial and club teams.

“Jamaica-Japan, the two Js in sport have decided to seal a partnership that will empower our athletes, coaches and administrators in getting the job done. Sport is about firm handshakes that go beyond photographic smiles,” added Ryan Foster, Jamaica Olympic Association’s CEO.

In 2017, the directorship of the JOA, on the invitation of Tottori Prefecture, visited the province and toured the campsite where next year the Olympians and Paralympians will stay before going to the Olympic Games in Tokyo.