A memorandum to establish the Chess Association of Turkic-Speaking Countries signed in Astana, Kazakhstan
On October 20, 2025, in Astana, representatives of Kazakhstan, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan signed a Memorandum of Intent to establish the Chess Association of Turkic-Speaking Countries (TSCCA).
This document formalizes the creation of a new structure designed to unite the chess federations of the Turkic world. The next step will be the legal registration of the TSCCA, paving the way for its full operational launch.
The candidacy of Ilaha Gadimova (pictured below, right), a former prominent chess player from Azerbaijan and now a sports official, has been proposed for the position of TSCCA Secretary General.
The idea for the association was conceived in September 2024 during the 45th Chess Olympiad and the FIDE General Assembly in Budapest. The participating countries agreed then to collaborate on developing a structure affiliated with FIDE.
The association aims to strengthen ties between national chess federations, exchange experience and ideas, organize major tournaments, and develop programs for children and youth. Special attention will be given to promoting chess in schools and universities to inspire a new generation of players.
The memorandum was signed in a ceremonial setting on the eve of the 2nd Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities. The event was attended by Arkady Dvorkovich, President of FIDE, and Timur Turlov, President of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation.
“The Turkic world is rich in chess traditions, great names, and strong schools. Now we have a common platform that will allow us to unite our efforts, share experience, and nurture a new generation of champions. This project brings us together not only through sport but also through our shared history and culture — which is why I am confident in its success,” said Timur Turlov.
The association’s headquarters are planned for Turkistan, the cultural capital of the Turkic world. Turkey will chair the association until the end of 2025, with Kazakhstan assuming the leadership starting in 2026.
The member countries represent a region with a population of around 170 million people and are home to over 100 grandmasters. The creation of the TSCCA is expected to significantly strengthen the chess movement across the Turkic world and enhance its collective presence on the global chess stage.