Elista, 21
August 2008
Mr. M.
Saakashvili
President
Republic of Georgia
Dear Mikhail Nikolozovich!
I
am addressing my letter to you on behalf of the International Chess Federation
(FIDE) and millions of aficionados of the wisest game on the planet in respect
of the statement of the Georgian Chess Federation regarding participation of
Georgia’s representatives in the Women’s World Chess Championship.
Following the
decision of the FIDE Presidential Board regarding the said tournament, it is
scheduled to be held in Nalchik, Kabardino-Balkaria, Russian Federation, from 28
August to 18 September 2008.
Six Georgian sportswomen- Maia Chiburdanidze, Leila Dzhavahishvili, Sopio
Gvetadze, Maia Lomineishvili, Sopiko Khukhashvili, Nino Khurtsidze – received
the right of participation, having gone through a most difficult process of
selection, or, by a personal invitation, due to personal high rating. Highly
esteemed Nona Terentievna Gaprindashvili has been appointed a member of the
appeals committee of the tournament. Mr. Evgeni Melikset-Begi – is a member of a
arbiters’ board. Thus, it was supposed that the Georgian representation be one
of the largest at this most prestigious event in women’s chess. I think that one
should not mention the level of authority and respect which is being enjoyed in
the world by the Georgian chess school and its representatives, who personify
intellect and beauty of Georgia.
Several days
ago we all have become witnesses of a horrible humanitarian catastrophe. In my
previous statements I have expressed my most sincere condolences to families of
the catastrophe’s victims and FIDE’s position on this issue. Unfortunately, we
are unable to change the dates and venues of the Championship.
Fully
realizing all complexity of the present situation for the Georgian chess players
and understanding their dear wish to defend honour of their country at the chess
board, I am appealing to you for your kind assistance in providing the sportsmen
with conditions for smooth participation in the World Championship. This is
especially valuable and urgent during the days of the Olympic Games.
Looking
forward to your understanding.
Kirsan
Ilyumzhinov
President
