Australia and Japan sign historic Rugby Accord

The National Unions of Australia and Japan have signed an historic Rugby Accord in Tokyo designed to promote cooperation between the two Unions.

ARU Chairman Dilip Kumar and JRFU President Mr Yoshiro Mori have committed to assist the International Rugby Board (IRB) achieve the key strategic goals of maintaining and improving the competitiveness within Tier One Unions as well as high performance programs in tier Two countries designed to develop and sustain professional Rugby to Tier One standards.

Mr Kumar said the ARU recognised its status as a leader in world Rugby and has a responsibility for the development of the game in Tier 1 and Tier 2 countries, particularly in the Asia Pacific Region.

"Ultimately, we would all like to see an increasing number of teams which have a realistic chance of making the Semi Finals of the Rugby World Cup."

"We already maintain strong ties with Japan through Eddie Jones and Glen Ella who have offered assistance to the national team in the past. Many Australians continue to play club Rugby in Japan - Australia hosts frequent tours by schools, university and club sides and there is an ongoing exchange at referee level."

Mr Mori said Japan believes Australia can assist in the improvement in standard and quality of Japanese Rugby to the point where Japan could be in a position to challenge for a Quarter Final position at future Rugby World Cup tournaments.

"The JRFU values its relationship with Australia. Through this Accord, we will access greater technical advice and sports science advice for our national team, explore new competition options and establish coach, player and referee exchange."

"Both our Unions are very enthusiastic about the outcomes that can be achieved through the Accord."

The Accord document was formally signed in Tokyo this afternoon, during a two-day visit to Japan by Mr Kumar and ARU Chief Executive Gary Flowers.

The Accord is also a timely symbol of the good relations between the ARU and JRFU with 2006 marking the 30th anniversary of the signing of the 1976 Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Australia and Japan. Next year is being celebrated as "2006 Australia-Japan Year of Exchange" by the governments of both countries.

Japan was one of the best-supported teams during Rugby World Cup 2003 in Australia with Australian fans flocking to their matches in Townsville and Gosford.