The National Lotteries Authority already serves as a key partner of the St Lucia Olympic Committee ©Getty Images

The St Lucia Olympic Committee (SLOC) has vowed to strengthen its relationship with the Caribbean country's National Lotteries Authority, including creating a forum for National Federations to request financial assistance.

Officials from the two bodies met virtually to discuss ways to enhance their partnership and agreed that it should be focused on assisting with the development of sport in the island nation.

The possibility of creating a communication channel with the National Lotteries Authority for the SLOC on behalf of its 20 National Federations was among the topics discussed in an attempt to build on existing ties.

The National Lotteries Authority already sponsors several sporting initiatives in St Lucia.

Under the proposals, National Federations would be required to justify any requested financial support.

Levern Spencer was one of five St Lucian athletes to compete at Tokyo 2020 ©Getty Images
Levern Spencer was one of five St Lucian athletes to compete at Tokyo 2020 ©Getty Images

It was also suggested that the SLOC and the National Lotteries Authority convene regular meetings to maintain strong levels of communication between the pair.

Alfred Emmanuel was elected SLOC President at its Extraordinary General Assembly in November, succeeding Fortuna Belrose after she opted not to stand for re-election.

He had previously served as the National Olympic Committee's secretary general for 25 years.

St Lucia has competed at every Olympic Games since Atlanta 1996, although it is yet to win a medal.

It was represented by five athletes at Tokyo 2020.