BOA President Steve Stoute was joined by secretary general Erskine Simmons, assistant secretary general Cameron Burke and Olympic operations manager Glyne Clarke at the governing body's headquarters in Wildey.

Public affairs officer James Rodriguez, deputy public affairs officer Jeff Barrus and cultural affairs assistant Sophia Lewis represented the Embassy.

Ideas discussed included bringing American Olympians to Barbados to work with local athletes, as well as the promotion of Barbadian sports, athletes and events through US media channels.

Support with university scholarships in the US, visa assistance and training options were also covered, while the parties explored the potential for a year-long youth programme which would target at risk communities.

The US delegates asked about sporting challenges in Barbados, including limited coaching options, a lack of funding and depleting sporting facilities on the island.

"This has been a very productive meeting," said Stoute.

"The BOA is excited to see where this strengthened relationship with the US Embassy and their cultural department may take us.

"We are committed to driving our sports and athletes to the very top of their game, and a more established alliance with various foreign offices around the world will only help us to achieve this vision."

The BOA has also hosted delegations from Japan, China, Brazil, Canada, Australia and Britain in a bid to strengthen ties with these countries.

"We are here to help the BOA," said Rodriguez.

"It is very encouraging to see such a strong sporting culture in Barbados, and if there is any way the US Embassy can assist to facilitate improving local sports here, we are more than happy to do our part."