Russia and Belarus traditionally compete in European events, but due to the reaction to the invasion of Ukraine, the nations are looking further East to find a pathway to return to sport in time for Paris 2024.

Previously, the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) left the door open for the countries to participate at the Asian Games subject to conditions made by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), who initially set out recommendations in February 2022 to ban athletes and officials from the countries due to their involvement in the war.

Salnikov said its most-important goal was to return in some form to competition.

"The most important thing is that the prospect of entering the international arena has appeared," said the RSF President to Russian state news agency TASS.

"Based on the opening opportunity to compete in continental competitions in Asia, clear parameters should appear, including the qualifying competitions for the Olympic Games in Paris, this will be clear from the dialogue with World Aquatics. 

"We are currently studying the message of IOC President Thomas Bach, in accordance with which we are waiting for clarifications from World Aquatics. 

"After that, we will have to work out the format."

The IOC has suggested athletes who were not supporting the war could return to international competition as neutrals.

The Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games, initially scheduled for last year but pushed back due to the COVID-19 restrictions, is now set to take place from September 23 to October 8.

Several events will act as qualifiers for the Paris 2024 Olympics, set to run from July 26 to August 11 2024.