Over 400 young players from 18 countries of the region will participate in the tournament, which I'm sure will not only be a meeting place for children, but also a starting point for the careers of future champions and grandmasters. I am also pleased to note the fact that a wide cultural programme awaits participants and guests.
Today, the country's leadership is doing everything to enable young people, the younger generation, to have the opportunity to practice their favorite sports. Chess is flourishing in Uzbekistan, as evidenced by the high places that young chess players win in international competitions. Thus, they receive an additional incentive to improve their game and develop the chess traditions of their country.
I want to thank the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Public Education, the State Holding Company "Uzpahtasanoatexport" and the Asian Chess Federation for their support. Many thanks to the organizing committee of the championship and the Chess Federation of Uzbekistan for the excellent work and to all, who have made the feasible contribution to the holding of the chess festival. I believe that it will be followed by the other no less prestigious and responsible tournaments.
I wish young chess players to show their best game, while maintaining a high sports spirit and an excellent intellectual form.

President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE)
Kirsan Ilyumzhinov
03/31/2012