In a refreshing twist on international relations, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has introduced what can be termed “Chess Diplomacy” during his recent official visit to Uzbekistan. This initiative gained momentum when Modi presented President Shavkat Mirziyoyev with the original handwritten scoresheet from the 2025 FIDE World Cup final, featuring the moves of Uzbek Grandmaster Javokhir Sindarov. The scoresheet was elegantly housed in a leatherette cover, accompanied by a photograph capturing Sindarov at the World Cup ceremony, proudly draped in the Uzbek flag.
Sindarov’s victory at the World Cup held in Goa last November not only marked a significant achievement in his career but also earned him a position in the Candidates tournament, which he subsequently won, paving the way for a championship match against India’s D Gukesh later this year in Geneva. Before this anticipated showdown unfolds, the game of chess has notably served as a platform for fostering diplomatic relations.
Nitin Narang, President of the All India Chess Federation (AICF), remarked on social media, “A scoresheet captures the dynamics of a chess game, but it often signifies a larger narrative. From Sindarov’s remarkable World Cup victory in Goa to becoming a cherished gift from Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi to the President of Uzbekistan, chess uniquely bridges connections between individuals and nations. This is chess diplomacy in action.”
The chess rivalry between Uzbekistan and India is gaining momentum, with both countries showcasing a new generation of talented grandmasters. India boasts notable players such as Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, Vaishali, and Divya Deshmukh, while Uzbekistan counters with Sindarov and Nodirbek Abdusattorov, both of whom are poised to compete for prestigious titles.
The upcoming 46th Chess Olympiad, scheduled to take place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from September 15 to 27, will see both Indian teams defending their gold medals. India’s most formidable competitor in the open section is expected to be Uzbekistan, who are keen to reclaim the gold they lost to India in 2024, following their 2022 victory in Chennai.
During his two-day state visit to Tashkent, Modi and Mirziyoyev also established a long-term uranium supply agreement, a strategic move that will support India’s nuclear energy initiatives moving forward. Among the other gifts Modi presented to Mirziyoyev were a sandalwood Shata Tantri Veena, known as the Santoor, and two assortments of premium Kangra tea, presented in an intricately carved wooden case from Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra Valley.
Additionally, Modi expressed goodwill towards Mirziyoyev’s family by bringing gifts for his wife and daughter. In recognition of Modi’s efforts, Mirziyoyev awarded him the prestigious Order of Oliy Darajali Do’stlik, Uzbekistan’s highest state honor.
