Goa keen to host more int’l events: CM

Panaji: Chief minister Pramod Sawant has assured the best support whenever Goa hosts national or international competitions in the state."Goa is known for sun, sand and sea. We are adding another s, sports to make it a hub to host many events,” Sawant said while making the ceremonial move of top seed D Gukesh at the FIDE World Cup in Arpora on Tuesday.

“We have witnessed some great matches so far in three days. The tournament combines friendship, talent and unity."Sawant was accompanied by five-time world champion and FIDE deputy president Viswanathan Anand.The chief minister said a lot of activities are planned for the tournament which will end on Nov 27."We are giving free passes to school students so that they can witness this great event. They can come and enjoy it. This will definitely inspire our youth," he said.Goa has hosted three GM tournaments in the past, and after hosting the World Cup, the Goa Chess Association is looking to organize more big-ticket events."It is up to the local organisers and the state association to take the initiative. If they are ready, we will provide the support and help them to host even bigger international tournaments,” said Sawant.Anand was all praise for Goa’s ability to host such an event.

"I am so happy that the FIDE World Cup is taking place here. It is the second World Cup, actually. The first in the current format, which makes it interesting as a lot of great players are here. The tournament couldn't have happened without the govt's help," said Anand.With top players in action on the fourth day, Sawant and Anand visited the playing area. The chief minister later played a ceremonial move on the top board featuring D Gukesh and Kazakhstan's Nogerbek, Kazybek.