What are your impressions from ETCC 2011?
I want to thank the organizers of the European Team Chess Championship. A fantastic event, in an excellent venue. I had the chance to talk to players and delegates I got a positive reaction from all. It is also important that during the event a number of important businessman (representing international brands) visited the venue and we had some contacts for future chess co-operation. This is the key issue for me here since chess in Europe needs sponsorship.
The ECU assembly and Board took place during the ETCC. What are the results of the meetings?
The agenda of the meeting was not as heavy as that in Aix Le Bans in March. The main item was the ECU budget for 2012.
After long discussion and a compromise proposed by Mr. Makropoulos the delegates came to a common decision. There were some changes in the tournament regulations proposed by Board or by authorized committees. For Board meeting there is press release from ECU office and for the moment I have nothing to add.
You are also member of the FIDE Events Commission. What are the future plans?
We prepare a big program in order to standardize procedures in chess competitions, create new events, FIDE annual awards,
organize seminars for events’ management, and improve tournament regulations. There will be a lot of work and changes since FIDE Executive Board gave green light to progress and sports’ professionalism.
What is next in your chess agenda?
I have a very important trip for the open tournament of the Chess Mecca, Moscow.
