The Swedish official has chaired the Committee since 2019, and having contended with the COVID-19 pandemic during his tenure, he believes that last year was the most successful to date for the sport.

"We never achieved better results as this year," Chelbat claimed.

"It was a great year of achievements.

"World Taekwondo put in a lot of resources, times, funds, and MNA (Member National Association) assistance to help.

"This year was a high point - especially after COVID."

The year included the launch of the Para Grand Prix Series, Para taekwondo's full integration at the European Championships in Manchester and classification opportunities around the world.

Chelbat praised World Taekwondo President Chungwon Choue, members of the Para Taekwondo Committee, World Taekwondo Para director Olof Hansson and assistant manager Thomas Page and other key officials responsible for classification and refereeing.

Looking forward to 2023, World Taekwondo anticipates a record number of Para taekwondo events, Paralympic qualification camps for referees in March and April, education for athletes focusing on rights and responsibilities and the return of an in-person World Championships for Para poomsae for the first time since 2019.

"It will be a very busy year as we continue to look for successful pathways for the Para movement and Para sports," Chelbat declared.

He outlined a particular emphasis on the development of the Para poomsae discipline this year.

"I hope that every GP (Grand Prix) Series host - or the hosts of any Para event, or even able-bodied - can put the same effort to support the Para movement," he said.

"We hope they can also organise Para poomsae events alongside Para kyorugi.

"Every country needs to take the responsibility to promote Para alongside able-bodied.

"It needs to start raining before there can be a tsunami."

Taekwondo made its debut at the Paralympic Games at Tokyo 2020, and is set for an increase from three to five weight divisions for both genders at Paris 2024 at the Games, due to take place between August 28 and September 8 next year.

Chelbat revealed that the Para Taekwondo Committee is targeting "an exceptional Paris 2024 Paralympic Games", and is excited to have additional events and more athletes allocated.

"After a very successful Tokyo 2020, we’ve seen the number of medal events increase, the number of weight divisions increase, and the number of athletes increase," he said.

"This is a great opportunity for Para taekwondo."