The earthquake in February reached 7.8 in magnitude and hit the south and centre of Turkey, while also strongly affecting the north and west of Syria.

Over 48,000 deaths were reported in Turkey, while around 7,000 deaths were confirmed in Syria.

The WKF took this opportunity to honour the victims, some of which were members of the Turkish Karate Federation.

Davor Cipek, assistant general secretary of the WKF, gave his condolences to the Turkish community.

"In this terrible and very chaotic situation, and at the same time very sad for all of those who lost family members, the Turkish Karate Federation found the strength and sacrifice to hold one of the most important events on the WKF’s international calendar, the Karate 1-Series A in the city of Konya," said Cipek.

“On behalf of the WKF President and the whole karate community, I would like to recognise the TKF’s efforts and express our most sincere congratulations and gratitude to the Turkish Karate Federation and its President Aslan Abid Uguz, as well as to the Organising Committee, for the excellent organisation and hospitality shown to all participants and guests.

Antonio Espinós, the WKF President, also shared his appreciation towards the Turkish Karate Federation.

"The Turkish Karate Federation has demonstrated tremendous tenacity and resilience in hosting, quite successfully, the Karate 1-Series A event in Konya this past weekend," said Espinós.

"Their efforts to provide the best conditions to all the athletes travelling to Konya should be recognised and praised.

"Karate has shown that sports may bring light even in the darkest times.

"We are dismayed by the loss of so many lives and we want to send our deepest condolences to all those who were affected by this tragedy."

The event had 1,000 competitors from 60 countries participating, with Turkey topping the medal tally with four gold medals.