President Stevo Pendarovski sent a congratulatory letter to the chess players, participants in the World Team Chess Championship for the Blind and Visually impaired, which will be held in Ohrid from June 27 to July 8, 2022.
As a sign of support for the blind and visually impaired, and in cooperation with the Faculty of Philosophy in Skopje, the letter was translated into Braille.
“Please accept my apologies that today, due to previously undertaken commitments I am not with you at the opening of the World Team Chess Championship for the blind and visually impaired. I would like to use the opportunity to greet you in writing, wishing you a successful championship and of course a pleasant stay in Ohrid and the Republic of North Macedonia. It is indeed a special honor for us to host 16 chess national teams and I am absolutely convinced that the upcoming world championship will contribute to the further affirmation of chess in our country and will be an additional motivation for all those who are recreationally or professionally connected to this ancient game.
Chess is a kind of symbol for life, for life’s struggles and trials. It is more than a sport, more than a game. Battles on the chessboard require concentration, creativity, persistence and bravery. Same as in life. All pieces have certain, limited movements, the number of fields is limited to 64, and yet there are countless combinations and possibilities. And in the reality of life, in addition to limitations and obstacles, nothing can stop the will, motivation, courage. Let me convey my admiration for the way you deal with life’s trials and your passion and dedication to chess.
Let me once again wish for a successful organization of the World Chess Championship and interesting and memorable games between chess masters.
Sincerely,
Stevo Pendarovski”
