Both countries were approved at a digital meeting of the governing body's ruling Council.

It means that the number of IOF members has now risen to 75.

Malta Sport For All, a multi-sport organisation based in Birkirkara, will represent the Mediterranean country.

The organisation is autonomous and independent, and is based on the principle of volunteering.

Its first aim will be to develop the sport in kindergartens and primary schools, with specific orienteering programmes.

A National Championships will take place in September 2021, it is hoped.

Ecuador will be represented by the Federación Ecuatoriana del Deporte de Orientacion, a new organisation which has been established.

The South American country is re-joining the IOF having previously been a member.

A provisional member of the IOF may retain that status for two Congress periods.

During this time they must have, in the view of the IOF Council, actively developed the sport of orienteering in their country.

The governing body last month changed the criteria to become a member association, saying its strategy has moved towards establishing sustainable members.

The IOF noted there had been previous efforts to simply secure as many members as possible.

The current focus is on recruiting and assisting members which are attempting to promote orienteering, and will participate in IOF activities over time.