The Samoa Rugby Union hosted the Chief Executive Officer of China Rugby Football Association, Jack Lau and his delegation in Apia this week.
SRU Chairman and Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said the announcement was delayed to coincide with the first official visit by the CRFA officials.
“The MOU between SRU and CRFA represents the continuous close relationship between China and Samoa. Amongst China’s immense contribution in Samoa includes assistance in our sports facilities and naturally this has extended our mutual partnership with close establishment of means to both explore and share resources and commercial opportunities through the sport of rugby.”
As part of the MOU, SRU will aid through the Manu Samoa 7s and XVs programme to promote the Game in China and also provide an environment for CFRA Teams to visit and learn from local teams and competitions on island.
A statement said China recognises Samoan players spread across the world and plans to set up its own professional rugby championship in the next few years is exciting for both Unions and CFRA would like SRU be part of this exciting development.
For SRU, assisting CFRA grow the game in in a country of China’s global economic power will expose both Unions to commercial opportunities.
Lau said, “We are very happy to be in Samoa and witnessed first-hand what SRU has to offer.”
“Our first visit to Samoa so soon is a sign of our commitment for SRU to help us, and we have accepted an invitation to participate in the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Marist Samoa 7s in February. We anticipate to bring our national men and women sevens squad to camp for a few weeks and learn from Samoan teams”.
SRU and the Chinese Rugby Football Association signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Beijing last month.
Photo supplied MPMC Press