"This is the first centre of its kind in the world initiated by Armenia. In 2011, Armenia became the first country to include chess in the curriculum of schools. Later, many countries followed the example of Armenia. You are the first in everything in the world chess family. The scientific research institute opened in Armenia will play a huge role in the development of chess," Kirsan Ilyumzhinov said in an interview with media.
Ilyumzhinov also said that during his visit to Armenia, he played a blitz chess match with Serzh Sargsyan. Armenia President gave up the right to play white in favour of FIDE President, and the party ended in a friendly draw.