You have always shown the unselfish dedication and courageous willingness to fight for what you believe in. Your strong and charismatic personality gained the unquestioned authority in the chess community of America and all the world of chess.

Your great contribution to FIDE and the chess world is truly priceless and unforgettable. Please accept my sincere wishes for the good health, new achievements, and many happy returns of this joyful day! Let your soul always remain the unchanged young, penetrating and sharp as ever.

Kirsan Ilyumzhinov,

President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE)