Doha, December 22 (QNA) - President of the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Mohammed Hassan Jalood praised the distinguished role played by the State of Qatar, represented by the Qatar Weightlifting Federation, in developing and promoting weightlifting at the international, continental, and Arab levels. He commended the efforts of HE Mohammed Yousef Al Mana, the president of the Qatari, Arab, and Afro-Asian weightlifting federations, who has contributed to developing and enhancing the sport's standing internationally, regionally, and locally.

Jalood also praised the outstanding organization of the 10th Qatar International Cup, the Arab championships for youth, junior, and senior categories, and the West Asian championships, currently held in Doha, emphasizing that the organization reflects Qatar's expertise in hosting major championships according to the highest international standards.

He further said that the championships are being held in a distinguished atmosphere, both at the competition venue and the accommodation hotel, in addition to providing all means of security, safety, and comfort for the participating delegations and weightlifters. He termed the great success achieved to be due to the State of Qatar's extensive capabilities and experience in weightlifting as well as its provision of all necessary resources on both the technical and organizational levels.

He added that Qatar had hosted the Arab Cup football tournament just a few days ago. Hours later, it is hosting three weightlifting championships, with the participation of more than 320 athletes representing 28 countries, including 18 Arab nations.

The IWF President praised the high level of competition at the three championships currently held in Doha, which have seen new records set, with several athletes aiming to break records in multiple weight categories.

For his part, Mohamed Abdelmaksoud, the president of the Egyptian weightlifting federation, vice president of the African weightlifting federation, and member of the IWF executive committee, affirmed that Qatar's organization of the three championships has been exceptional, reflecting its extensive experience in hosting such events.

He pointed out that the Egyptian team's participation in these combined weightlifting championships serves important technical objectives, as part of its preparation for upcoming continental and international competitions.

Abdelmaksoud explained that the Egyptian national team is participating in these tournaments with two full teams for men and women, explaining that this participation represents a basic preparation stage before the upcoming World Championship, scheduled to be held in Egypt’s Ismailia from May 2 to 8. (QNA)