By Zjan Shirinian

World Karate Federation President Antonio Espinos with Dr Robin Mitchell, Fiji's International Olympic Committee member and President of the Oceania National Olympic Committee ©World Karate FederationWorld Karate Federation (WKF) President Antonio Espinos met referees, coaches and senior athletes who are at the heart of developing the sport during a visit to Fiji.

Espinos was in the country for the 16th Ocenia Karate Championship in the capital Suva.

After being given a traditional Fijian welcome on his arrival, he opened the Congress of the Oceania Karate Federation (OKF).

He also attended a meeting of the technical seminar, made up of officials and athletes, at Fiji Olympic House.

A WKF spokesman described it as a "special moment... as these three groups play a very significant role in creating and maintaining the positive image of karate to the public as well as the development of the sport".

During his stay on the Pacific island, Espinos made calls to the Minister of Sport, Viliame Naupoto, and Fijian International Olympic Committee member Dr Robin Mitchell, President of the Oceania National Olympic Committee.

OKF is one of five Continental Federations of the World Karate Federation.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]