In the last 7 years the Turkish Chess Federation has played an important role in the development of world chess. It started wtih the 34th Chess Olympiad in Istanbul in 2000, and continued with different levels of European and World Chess Championships.

When I was elected seven years ago, the number of licenced chess players in Turkey was around 3.000, now it is about 200.000. Also we have succeeded in increasing the number of new young titled players and strong ELO rated IMs during this period.

In 2005, chess has been accepted as an elective course in all primary schools following which chess has exploded in Turkey. With an income of 4 million USD per year and professiolal staff, TCF is one of the leading chess federations in the world.

The European Club Cup is an important event in this road map for us. We are delighted that the champions in Kemer 2007 are going to join the list of prestigimus clubs who have won this event in the past. I would like to thank Governor of Antalya Mr. Alaaddin YUKSEL, Major of  Kemer Mr. Adem YILMAZ and Youth and Sports Manager of Antalya Mr. Nadir YAPSAKALOGLU on behalf of the Turkish and World Chess Family for their great contribution to chess.

Dear chess players, parents and coaches,

While you are our guests in Antalya and in Turkey, I hope you will experience our Turkish hospitality and I hope that when you will go back to your home, you will take back our warmth and friendship.

I wish you good time and great success.

Chess regards
Ali Nihat YAZICI
President of Turkish Chess Federation