On February 12-13 the FIDE delegation had an inspection trip to Baku on preparation and holding of the World Cup and World Chess Olympiad in Azerbaijan. FIDE was represented by FIDE Deputy President Mr. Georgios Makropoulos and Vice President Mr. Israel Gelfer, CEO Mr. Geoffrey Borg and Assistant to the FIDE President Mr. Berik Balgabaev.

During the trip the delegation met with the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mr. Azad Ragimov, the President of Chess Federation of Azerbaijan, the Head of the Central Bank Dr. Elman S. Rustamov, the manager of the Executive Direction of the Organizing Committee, Vice- president of Chess Federation of Azerbaijan Mr. Mahir Mamedov, IA Faik Gasanov and visited the Organising Committee office of the 1st European Games which will take place in Baku from 12 to 28 June 2015. The FIDE representatives have also visited the venue of the forthcoming World Cup.

It was mentioned that the new international airport had been opened and visa support for participants of the events was considerably simplified. The Organising Committee will be able to use the great positive experience and infrastructure prepared for the European Games, including 17 thousands volunteers.

A specific plan of action was scheduled and soon the venues of the World Cup and Wold chess Olympiad will be officially announced.