The High Commission for Pakistan in Dhaka, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Chess Federation, organized the 1st Mian Sultan Khan Chess Tournament today at the Pakistan High Commission. The event was arranged to celebrate the skill, strategy and legacy of one of the greatest players of the game of Chess Mian Sultan Khan. Pakistani lone Grandmaster Mian Sultan Khan (Late), a three-time British Chess Championship winner, was revered as one of the greatest natural players of modern times, leaving an indelible mark on the global chess community. With an impressive turnout of 180 chess players from diverse backgrounds including the diplomatic community, public and private organizations, educational institutions, and the general public, the tournament showcased the fervor and passion for the game across Bangladesh. President of Bangladesh Chess Federation, Dr. Benazir Ahmed who is also President of South Asian Chess Council graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. General Secretary of Bangladesh Chess Federation, Syed Shahab Uddin Shamim, Grandmaster Niaz Murshed and Rani Hamid, Bangladesh’s 1st International master player were present as Special Guests. Ambassadors of various countries based in Dhaka including Ambassador of China H.E. Mr. Yao Wen, Ambassador of the Philippines, H.E Mr. Tito L. Ausan Jr., Ambassador of Italy H.E. Antonio ALESSANDRO, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, H.E Mr. Dharmapala Weerakkody, Egyptian Ambassador H.E Mr. Omar Mohie Eldin Ahmed Fahmy, were also present as special guests. Mohammad Minhaz Uddin emerged as Champion of the tournament and Mr. Zia Tahsin Tajwar as runner-up while Mr. Manon Reja Neer and Md Abu Hanif clinched 3rd and 4th place respectively. Dr. Benazir Ahmed, President Bangladesh Chess Federation and Pakistan High Commissioner Syed Ahmed Maroof awarded trophies and cash prizes to the top performers of the tournament expressing their admiration for the participants' dedication and skill. Speaking at the Awards Distribution Ceremony, Dr. Benazir Ahmed appreciated the great initiative of Pakistan High Commission for providing the excellent opportunity to chess players in Bangladesh and the diplomatic community to connect with each other. “The event will create positive vibes in the chess community of Bangladesh and Pakistan and also the diplomatic community in Bangladesh”, Benazir Ahmed said and assured continuous support of Bangladesh Chess Federation to any such future endeavours of the Mission. Speaking at the concluding ceremony, Pakistan High Commissioner Syed Ahmed Maroof expressed his gratitude to the Bangladesh Chess Federation for the invaluable support in successfully organizing the tournament. He emphasized the significance of sports events in strengthening people to people contacts, transcending borders through the spirit of sportsmanship. He said that the tournament was aimed at celebrating the rich legacy of Mian Sultan Khan and bringing together the chess enthusiasts in Bangladesh and the diplomatic community for a healthy activity. Highlighting the impressive turnout of participants from diverse background, High Commissioner Maroof said that the event served as a powerful symbol of mutual respect and collaboration, fostering a spirit of camaraderie that transcends the boundaries of the chessboard. “Sports has the power in bringing people together, promoting understanding, and nurturing lasting friendships across communities and borders", Mr. Maroof said and expressed hope that it will be a very good step forward in bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh. The High Commissioner congratulated the winner and best performers of the tournament while wishing all other participants the best for the 2nd Mian Sultan Khan tournament next year. He also thanked the ambassadors and diplomats of various countries, the Grandmaster, International masters and media persons for their presence at the event.
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