It was billed as a regionalised version of the established SportAccord, with event organisers, governing bodies and other influential figures in sporting politics gathering in a localised setting.

International Federations could also bring together stakeholders and organisations to help develop their sport in the region.

Chiulli, who is President of both SportAccord and the Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF), claimed the inaugural event had major relevance.

"This has been a very important occasion to meet, talk and learn," he said.

"Fort Lauderdale is a marvellous place and we have been made to feel very much at home.

"My main takeaway from this event will be the atmosphere here in Fort Lauderdale.

"The discussions have been open and constructive and this is how friendships are built and consolidated."

Chiulli thanked Greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida Sports Foundation and International Sports and Health Associates for their help in staging the convention.

The theme of the conference was "A United Approach to the International Sport Landscape in the Americas".

Panam Sports President Neven Ilic and secretary-general Ivar Sisniega were among the presenters over the two days, as they outlined the vision of their organisation and events.

Esports, the safeguarding of athletes, ensuring a successful relationship between athletes and sport, and an assessment of sport's social responsibilities featured among the topics discussed.

As well as the conference programme, delegates also visited the exhibition centre throughout the two days.

SportAccord managing director Nis Hatt praised José Rodriguez of the Regional SportAccord Pan America 2019 Local Organising Committee.

He also made special mention of event gold partners Florida Sports Foundation, Greater Fort Lauderdale and Panam Sports.

"I'd like to thank everyone who has contributed towards this inaugural event," Hatt said.

"I would also like to express my sincere thanks to nearly 550 people, representing 70 nationalities, who have come from across Pan America and also from around the world to help get this event off the ground."

Regional SportAccord Pan America was arranged alongside the fourth edition of the Americas Best Practices Symposium.

The two-day symposium, organised by Panam Sports and the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, began here today.

SportAccord will now prepare for their annual World Sport and Business Summit, from April 19 to 24 in China's capital Beijing.

Beijing will host SportAccord for the second time, having previously done so in 2007, a year before the Summer Olympic Games in the city.

Beijing is also the host of the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2022.