Malta Chess Federation

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich visits Malta

Oct 22, 2022 

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and Malta Chess Federation Vice President Duncan Vella and Treasurer Noel Grima held a meeting to discuss current and future affairs of the Malta Chess Federation.

This was Mr. Dvorkovich’s first visit to Malta but also the 100th country he travelled to. The President explained that his father was part of the USSR Contingent in the 1980 Chess Olympiads held in Valletta.

 

The main discussion was about the Chess Federation’s 100th year anniversary since its formation in 1923. Mr. Dvorkovich stated that it is quite rare for national chess federations to be that old – older than FIDE that was formed the year after in 1924.

 

Mr. Dvorkovich offered FIDE’s support for a number of activities to celebrate this Anniversary. Mr. Vella thanked the FIDE President for his visit and also thanked FIDE for their trust in Malta – this being the 2nd major event (following the European Small Nations Team Championships) held in Malta in less than a year.

Later, Mr. Dvorkovich opened the World Chess Amateur Championships held at the Paradise Bay Resort in Mellieha. Over 190 players are taking part with a record number of foreigners for this tournament. There are 4 tournaments – Open U2300, Open U2000, Open U1700 and Women U1700. 

Following the FIDE Anthem, Mr. Quentin Joe Grima – General Manager of Paradise Bay Resort welcomed all participants. Mr. Vella presented a small gift to the FIDE President. Mr. Dvorkovich followed with a short speech and played the first ceremonial move on the first board.

Related Links:

  • Event’s Official Website
  • https://malta2022.net
  • Photos of Event
  • https://www.facebook.com/ChessFIDE/photos/pcb.5832972950074822/5832972796741504