On June 18, a chess tournament was held in Ashgabat to celebrate International Chess Day among representatives of diplomatic missions accredited in Turkmenistan and their families. The tournament was organized by the Chess Federation of Turkmenistan (CFT) in partnership with the French Institute of Turkmenistan.

The competition took place at the French Institute and brought together chess enthusiasts from the diplomatic community.

Following the tournament's official opening, the symbolic first move was made by Vepa Myalikgulyev, Chairman of the Turkmenistan Chess Federation; Vincent Lorenzini, Director of the French Institute of Turkmenistan; a representative of the tournament's main sponsor, the insurance company “Resmi Kepil”; and the Ambassador of Tajikistan, Vafo Alibek Niyatbekzoda, who attended the tournament as a spectator and supporter.

The competition was held according to the Swiss system in blitz format and included seven rounds with a time control of 7 minutes plus 3 seconds increment per move.

"Chess is a universal language that unites people regardless of national borders, profession, or position," the organizers noted. Such meetings contribute to the development of "chess diplomacy," creating additional opportunities for cultural dialogue and strengthening friendly relations between representatives of different countries.

Following the tournament, victory was awarded to UNDP representative Rakhman Saparbayev (7 points out of 7 possible).

Second place was taken by the representative of the German Embassy, Volker Basche (6 points).

Third place - representative of the British Embassy Michael Finn (5 points).

Special prizes were presented during the awards ceremony. Elina Larina (UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia) was named the best female player. The youngest participant, 11-year-old Komron Niyatbekov, representing the Embassy of Tajikistan, also received a prize.

The tournament also concluded the season of chess club meetings held by the SCF at the French Institute. From July to mid-September, the French Institute is on summer break, and all educational sections, including the chess club, are temporarily suspended.