WKF vice-president Bechir Cherif, right, met with sports officials in Libya to discuss the upcoming 2023 UFAK North Region Championships ©WKF

World Karate Federation (WKF) vice-president Bechir Cherif met with sports officials in Libya to discuss the upcoming 2023 Union of African Karate Federation (UFAK) North Region Championships.

Libyan capital Tripoli is set to host the event in July.

Cherif analysed the preparations for the continental event and the progress of karate in the country with Libyan Olympic Committee President Jamel Zarouk and Minister of Sports and Tourism Abdul Shafie Al-Juwaifi.

WKF President Antonio Espinós said he is expecting for a "successful" event in Libya in five months.

"The progress of Karate in Africa is at the core of the WKF’s strategic plan," Espinós said.

"For that, the celebration of region championships is essential, as they set the foundation to further grow the sport in their area of influence.

Libyan capital Tripoli is set to host the UFAK North Region Championships in July ©WKF
Libyan capital Tripoli is set to host the UFAK North Region Championships in July ©WKF

"We can expect a successful event in Libya in July, and I want to thank the president of the Libyan Olympic Committee Jamel Zarouk and the Minister of Sports and Tourism Abdul Shafie Al-Juwaifi for taking the time to meet with our Vice President Bechir Cherif.

"Also, my heartfelt appreciation for Mr Cherif’s contribution to the progress of Karate and his outstanding job in the WKF and UFAK.

"Karate is continuously reaching new heights in Africa and all over the world thanks to his unparalleled efforts and hard work."

Cherif, who is also UFAK’s first vice-president, conveyed his appreciation towards Libyan authorities in collaborating with WKF to host the event.