MIES - The International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) has expressed its support for a new long-term agreement between the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) set to run through 2032.

The two bodies have outlined and agreed on the principles of the agreement, which will see them co-operate with the aim of:

• Increasing the visibility of the Paralympic Games and enhancing the Paralympic brand;
• Deepening existing co-operation, specifically on the implementation of Olympic Agenda 2020, the strategic roadmap of the future for the Olympic Movement;
• Ensuring the financial stability and long-term viability of the IPC, the Paralympic Games and the Paralympic Movement.

The new agreement would build on the current partnership and co-operation agreements that were signed prior to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

IWBF President Ulf Mehrens said: "The new agreement is very important for both the Paralympic movement and our sport. If the IPC and IOC continue to work closely together to help enhance the visibility of the Paralympic Games and disability sport, this can only continue to have a positive impact on wheelchair basketball as we look to reach more countries and introduce our great sport to new audiences."

FIBA