In Vrnjačka Banja (Serbia) – the capital of chess and tourism, as many call it, the FIDE School World Chess Championship was officially opened. At the ceremony, which was embellished by the “Vrnjačke Iskrice” children’s choir, the President Andrija Jorgic greeted those present on behalf of the Chess Federation of Serbia:
– Welcome to the land of European champions! I wish you to spend nice days in Serbia and to bring back memories from our country.
On behalf of the World Chess Federation, the FIDE delegate Ozgur Solakoglu addressed the audience, who pointed out that he especially appreciates the efforts of the Chess Federation of Serbia and President Jorgic, for chess to be represented as a subject in schools.
The mayor of Vrnjačka Banja, Boban Đurovic, reminded the audience that this is the third consecutive year in which this place has hosted a major sports competition and that he hopes that such a practice will continue.
A particularly inspired speech was delivered by the Minister of Sports of the Republic of Serbia, Zoran Gajic, who recalled the long and deep roots of chess in these regions.
In the end, Mr. Gajic and Mr.Djurovic symbolically made the first move, and the chief arbiter Nenad Doric marked the beginning of the competition and a new chess friendship.
According to the final data of the organizers, 461 participants from 43 national federations are taking part in the tournament.