It is hoped the MoU will lead to job-creation projects giving increased financial independence and the provision of medical services and equipment.

The two organisations will also work together to encourage Asian Governments to renew and update their legislation to protect the rights of disabled people.

This push for legislation will be in line with the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol.

Working with National Paralympic Committees (NPCs), the ERC is set to gain access to local knowledge on the needs of people with impairments and therefore tailor its action plans to specific countries.

The MoU also promises the creation of a shared database of volunteers that will help with activities such as humanitarian projects and sporting events.

This agreement came after a series of meetings were held by the APC with NPCs to better understand the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on athletes.

Many athletes lost out on casual work as well as competition, with the economic hardship leading to extra support being offered by the APC and the ERC.

"At our initial meeting with the United Arab Emirates Red Crescent, it was clear that both organisations have a shared goal to improve the lives of people with an impairment across the region," APC President Majid Rashed said.

"Whilst the ERC's mission is to work with all vulnerable people, it is a sad truth that living with an impairment means your life is much more precarious.

"People with an impairment are more likely to live in poverty with fewer opportunities to access work and education and with greater health needs.

"In fact, the UN estimates that almost 60 per cent of the world's 650 million persons with disabilities live in Asia.

"We know that, as well as delivering health and well-being benefits, sport can be a great force to raise awareness of people with an impairment and drive inclusion. 

"The Paralympic Movement is making people with an impairment more visible and driving social change as a result. 

"With our NPCs we can help UAE Red Crescent understand the situation on the ground across Asia, and can identify projects that will have tangible benefits for all people with an impairment."

The agreement was signed on behalf of the ERC by secretary general Mohammed Ateeq Al Falahi and it will run initially for two years, but will be reviewed on an annual basis.