Espinós discussed the World Karate Championships, scheduled to take place in Dubai from November 16 to 21 2021, with Alrazooqi, who also holds the role of United Arab Emirates Karate Federation President.

Competition had been set to take place this year but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

UAE Karate Federation director Mohammed Abbas and Organising Committee chairman Humaid Shamis were also present at the meeting. 

"I am convinced that the World Championships in Dubai will be one of the most outstanding events in the history of our sport," said Espinós.

"President Alrazooqi and his team are doing a great job to ensure the success of the event - after our meeting here, we can assure that the right steps are being taken to maximise all the opportunities and that all the appropriate measures are being implemented in the build-up of the event."

Espinós and Alrazooqi also discussed a number of other topics, including the development of karate in Asia and the upcoming activities of the AKF. 

The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on sport in Asia was also addressed. 

"I want to thank AKF and UAE Karate Federation President Major General Nasser Alrazooqi for his excellent work to make the most of these uncertain times," said Espinós.

"With his cooperation and all the efforts from his team, I am sure that karate will maintain its status as one of the most important sports in Asia."

Espinós recently revealed he believed the WKF was "prepared to host our major international events" after hosting a successful COVID-19 test event in Lisbon.