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The statement of the FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov |
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Wednesday, 20 August 2008 08:41 |
Dear chess friends,
During last several days I have received a number of letters, including an open letter from six Georgian chess players in respect of a possible change of a venue and dates of the World Women's Chess Championship. As you know, the championship is scheduled to take place from 28 August to 18 September in Nalchik, capital of Kabardino Balkaria.
I have already expressed my opinion several days ago. I reiterate: we should not mix sports and politics, and should not involve FIDE into various disputes and arguments. Once again I express most sincere condolences to all victims of humanitarian catastrophe.
As a response of the Georgian Chess Federation I would like to note that there are not any grounds for such a change. The Organisers have undertaken all necessary steps and carried out a good preparation and are ready to host all the guests. It is not their fault that blood was shed. We can't help taking into consideration interests of other participants, who purchased the tickets and are practically on the way to the venue of the tournament. But, first and foremost, interests of lots of admirers of talent of chess players should not suffer, as they are looking forward to the start of the Championship.
I fully realise all complexity of this situation, I call on all participants, trainers, officials, guests and journalists - all without any exception - to come to Nalchik and show in fact, and not in words - that we are one family.
Gens Una Sumus
Kirsan Ilyumzhinov
FIDE President
19 August, 2008
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