The J.League has signed a a strategic partnership agreement with Australia’s A-League in a large step for both organisations as they look to expand into Asia.

The partnership is the 10th for the J-League, who have cemented similar ties with leagues in Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia and Qatar.

In addition to personnel exchanges, youth tournaments, and mutual promotion of events such as the AFC Champions League, the two leagues agreed to assist in deepening the diplomatic and cultural relationships between Japan and Australia.

Australian players will remain ineligible for the J.League’s “Partnership Country” roster spot rule, although they may still be signed as an AFC player.