Through the partnership, Santen and IBSA will aim for social inclusion by boosting people’s awareness and understanding toward people with a vision impairment.

In the first of a series of initiatives, Santen has donated €10,000 (£9,000/$11,800) to IBSA in support of athletes with a visual impairment amid the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"Santen has long been involved in activities supporting blind sports, such as sponsoring both men’s and women’s national blind football teams representing Japan, supporting events organised by the Japan Blind Football Association and offering children with vision impairment opportunities to participate in sports," said IBSA President Jannie Hammershoi.

"The donation we have received from Santen will be invested into continuing to grow sports for people with visual impairments at all levels around the world. 

"We are sincerely grateful for the support Santen is extending to us as it will mean we can spread the values of inclusivity still further."

Founded in 1890, Santen specialises in ophthalmology. 

It carries out the research, development, marketing, and sales of pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter products, and medical devices.

"It is our tremendous honour to forge a partnership with IBSA," said Santen President and chief executive Shigeo Taniuchi.

"We hope to combine each other’s assets and strengths to further reinforce activities toward building an inclusive society, by way of promoting blind sports, encouraging understanding toward the vision impaired and accelerating enhancement of their quality of life around the world."

Santen and IBSA are now set to maintain a long-term partnership to promote global initiatives through blind sport.