2nd Vienna Diplomatic Cup - Rapid Chess Tournament

On July 16, at the initiative of the Embassy and Permanent Mission of Armenia in Vienna, in cooperation with the Austrian Chess Federation, the 2nd Vienna Diplomatic Cup, a rapid chess tournament was organized for the second consecutive year, dedicated to World Chess Day.

Around four dozen representatives from the diplomatic corps, the Austrian Foreign Ministry, and staff members of Vienna-based international organizations participated in the tournament, held at the UN office in Vienna (UNOV). H.E. Armen Papikyan, Ambassador of Armenia to Austria, Dennis Thatchaichawalit, Deputy Director-General of UNOV, Deputy Secretary-General of the UN Office in Vienna, and Michael Stöttinger, President of the Austrian Chess Federation, made opening remarks.

In his speech, Ambassador Papikyan expressed his pleasure that the tournament is becoming a tradition after last year's success. He highlighted Armenia's individual and team achievements in chess and the successful integration of chess into the education system. He emphasized the role of chess in promoting the culture of dialogue, solidarity, and peace.

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On December 12, 2019, upon the initiative of Armenia, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution, entitled "World Chess Day", designating 20 July as World Chess Day. The resolution, co-sponsored by 53 member states, acknowledges the opportunities chess offers in strengthening education, empowering women, fostering inclusion, mutual understanding, and respect.