Kirsan Nikolayevich greeted the tournament’s participants and spoke about the work of FIDE and the tasks and prospects of this federation. Then Ilyumzhinov shared his memories of how he studied at MGIMO, spoke about the history and significance of this university, both in Russia and in the world, and advised the young participants of the championship to contemplate entering this university.

“I am glad to see the excitement that prevails at MGIMO today! Young Moscow chess players for a time became the real owners of the main alma mater of Russian diplomats. I thank the Moscow Government and MGIMO for their attention to chess and support of the chess movement!” Kirsan Nikolayevich said. The rector of MGIMO Anatoly Torkunov gave Ilyumzhinov a warm welcome.
Later, Kirsan Ilyumzhinov was photographed with young participants of the championship and took a walk along the game halls.
The participants of the Moscow Championship together with the sixth FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov and the First Vice-President of MCF Nikita Kim expressed their support for the Muscovite Ekaterina Lagno, who fought in Khanty-Mansiysk in the match for the title of World Champion with Chinese Ju Wenjun.
Before the start of the fifth round, those tournament participants, who had already come to the gaming hall, climbed onto the stage and together with Kirsan Ilyumzhinov and the First Vice-President of MCF Nikita Kim made a general photo with a poster that read: “Katya, go!”