FIDE President Timur Turlov held a meeting with Akaki Iashvili, President of the Georgian Chess Federation and Representative of the FIDE President for Special Projects, to discuss a wide range of strategic matters related to the development of international chess, the organisation of major competitions, and new initiatives for the coming years.
The meeting covered the recent FIDE elections in Uzbekistan and the World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, with particular attention given to sporting results, organisational matters and the overall execution of the event.
A significant part of the discussion focused on the international chess calendar for 2027–2028, including World Championships and other events falling within the scope of the FIDE Events Commission.
The two officials exchanged views on possible improvements to competition formats, organisational standards and the overall experience for players, organisers, spectators and media. A number of new ideas and initiatives are currently being considered with the aim of further raising the quality and appeal of major FIDE events.
Chess development in Georgia
The meeting also addressed the current projects and strategic plans of the Georgian Chess Federation.
One of the key topics was the major reconstruction of the Tbilisi Chess Palace, a landmark chess venue located in the center of the Georgian capital. The renovation and restoration works are expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
Another area of discussion was the development of chess in preschool education. A project introducing chess to young children is already being implemented in 15 kindergartens in the Georgian city of Poti.
The initiative was highlighted as a model with potential for further development and possible adaptation in other countries.
New social initiative: chess for miners
The meeting also touched upon a new social initiative aimed at bringing chess to workers in the coal-mining industry.
Among the ideas discussed was the possibility of organising the first World Chess Championship for Miners. Given the active coal mines in the city of Tkibuli, Georgia could play a pivotal role in the development of such a project.
The initiative reflects the broader objective of expanding the social reach of chess and creating new opportunities for people from different professional and social backgrounds to engage with the game.
Expanding chess globally
A substantial part of the discussion was dedicated to the continued development of chess across all continents.
Timur Turlov and Akaki Iashvili discussed ways to broaden the geographic reach of international competitions, strengthen support for national federations, develop new chess projects, and deepen international cooperation.
Particular attention was given to countries and regions where chess already has a strong foundation but retains considerable potential for further growth.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to continue working closely on these areas and to develop practical proposals for new projects and improvements to FIDE competitions in the coming years.