A deal has been signed between International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) in a bid to help 'further develop' the sport.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aims to enhance the future of athletics for both able-bodied and disabled competitors, covering a variety of areas of co-operation. Rules; mutual promotion; the training of technical officials; and the exchange of information are among the issues to be covered in the agreement.

A plan will also be developed by both organisations to encourage the growth of athletics for para-athletes and the Paralympic Movements through IAAF member federations. IAAF president Lamine Diack said: "We will now actively encourage our member federations to further embrace the Paralympic Movement, with the prospect that future World Championships for able-bodied athletes and athletes with a disability could be held in conjunction with each other."

IPC president Sir Philip Craven added: "Through this co-operation, more competition opportunities will be created for para-athletes and thus the worldwide growth of athletics will be supported."