Under the broader theme of growing esports, the two organisations will work to advance gaming and immersive technology and human capital.

"Central America and the Caribbean region have been part of our community since the Global Esports Federation was established and accelerated with the founding of the Panam Esports Development Federation," said GEF chief executive Paul Foster.

"As we prepare to stage the Panam Esports Championships 2023 in Santiago this October, the focus has intensified, and opportunities multiplied, not only for the gaming community but for everyone, particularly for the youth.

"This partnership shines light on the forward-thinking leadership at the Centro Caribe Sports and the limitless opportunities that esports provides here and across our #worldconnected."

The GEF also announced the appointment of founding Board member Mario Cilenti as executive director of operations.

He will still remain President of the GEF's Panam Esports Development Federation in the build-up to the Santiago 2023 Panam Esports Championships.

Foster travelled to the Dominican Republic's capital city Santo Domingo to finalise the strategic partnership.

"This is an incredibly exciting time for Central America and the Caribbean," said Luis Rafael Mejía Oviedo, President of the CCS, speaking at the agreement signing.

"Esports provides dynamic access for the youth of our region to the international esports and gaming community, which has seen a meteoric rise in recent times.

"We are excited to work alongside the Global Esports Federation to develop and activate esports at the 2023 Central American and Caribbean Games, and beyond."

The Panam Esports Championships will be the first of its kind and will be held in parallel to the Pan American Games in the Chilean capital.

The GEF staged a similar event, the Commonwealth Esports Championships, last year in the British city of Birmingham.