Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam has asked the World Chess Federation (FIDE) to help Vietnam with the organisation of big tournaments and refereeing work.

Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam (R) meets with President of the World Chess Federation Kirsan Ilyumzhinov in Hanoi on March 10 (Photo: baochinhphu.vn)

Receiving FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov in Hanoi on March 10, the Deputy PM appreciated FIDE’s assistance to Vietnam in developing the sport of chess.

He expressed the hope that FIDE’s support would not stop at training chess players but would extend to the sharing of experience in refereeing work and the organisation of big tournaments.

The deputy PM requested the Vietnam Chess Federation and the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Tourism to cooperate closely with FIDE to hold chess tournaments, thus stimulating the development of the sport in Vietnam.

He said in the immediate future, Vietnam would consider the organisation of chess tournaments for students to popularise the sport and attract more social resources for its development. The country will also work to enhance the training of chess teachers for general schools.

The FIDE president noted that chess has developed strongly in Vietnam, with many Vietnamese chess players recording outstanding achievements at regional and global events.

He underlined that Vietnam is an active member of FIDE, and has hosted many international chess events, including the world youth championship. 

He pledged that FIDE will further support Vietnam to host big international chess tournaments in the future. –VNA