The IJF plans to work closely with the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) after the new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed.

Visually impaired judo for men made its debut on the Paralympic programme at Seoul 1988, with women being added at Athens 2004. 

At London 2012 there were 13 events - seven for men, six for women - with Ukraine topping the overall medals table.

They won a total of five medals, including three gold, to finish ahead of Cuba, Azerbaijan and Germany, who all won two gold medals each. 

Marius Vizer, President of the International Judo Federation, has promised to work closely with the International Blind Sports Federation after signing the deal with Nobert Biro, chairman of its Judo Committee ©IJF

Norbert Biro, chairman of the IBSA Judo Committee, hailed this latest development as another significant step forward for his sport.

"This day is a turning point in the history of IBSA," he said. 

"It is very necessary to have a close cooperation with the international federation for the development of sports.

"In the past, we had the blind athlete sport and the normal people sport, but actually we have only one sport, which is judo.

"Of course IBSA is very pleased with the IJF and to receive help from Mr Vizer.

"It is very important for those with a visual impairment to be integrated into the all sectors of society including sport.

"It is very useful for the society.

"We want to develop IBSA Judo for the professional level and that's why we are very happy with the signing as it;s a great chance to integrate visually impaired judo into other judo competitions."

This latest agreement is another major boost for visually impaired judo following the announcement earlier this year that it would feature as a full medal sport in the inaugural European Games in Baku next year.

"It is a great honour to have a long-term contract with the IBSA," said Vizer.

"We will work closely."

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