Chess will be part of the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023, to be held in the China Qiyuan, Hangzhou Branch.

On July 17, Victor Bologan, FIDE Executive Director and Zhu Chen, FIDE Treasurer, visited the China Qiyuan Hangzhou Branch (Intelligence Building), and had a productive discussion with Hang Tianpeng, President of the China Qiyuan Hangzhou Branch, and Liu Xiao, head of the Intelligence and Sports Management Office of the China Qiyuan Hangzhou Branch. The sides exchanged views on future cooperation in promoting and developing chess projects. Both parties believe that the meeting was effective and beneficial and will become a starting point for future joint projects.

The representatives of the FIDE stressed the importance of conducting mutually beneficial and win-win in-depth exchanges in promoting the standardization of international chess and industrial development. FIDE delegates highly praised the development of the intellectual sports and industry of the China Qiyuan Hangzhou Branch.

Both sides had a frank exchange on their respective strengths, communicated intentions in regard to organizing and hosting chess competitions, conferences, and seminars, and expressed hope to deepen cooperation in the future.

Also attending the meeting were Yu Ting, Deputy Director of the Intelligence and Sports Management Department of China Qiyuan Hangzhou Branch, Ma Yangchen, Executive President of China Chess Event Co., Ltd., and Du Qiang, General Manager of Hangzhou Qizhan Digital Technology Co., Ltd.

In the afternoon of the same day, July 17, Secretary of Shaoxing Municipal Party Committee, Mr Wen, gave a friendly welcome to Zhu Chen, Victor Bologan, and Ma Yangchen. Mr Hu Min, Vice Mayor of Shaoxing, also attended the meeting.

Mr Wen warmly greeted the FIDE delegation and told them about Shaoxing's economic and social development, history and culture, as well as its achievements in preparing for the Hangzhou Asian Games and launching the chess game. According to him, chess has a solid competitive foundation in Shaoxing, cultivating a group of masters. He also expressed hope of FIDE's continuing its support of Shaoxing's chess sports, deepening cooperation in organizing events, and building up Shaoxing's reputation as one of the chess strongholds in China.

Zhu Chen complimented the vigorous development of Shaoxing chess in recent years, especially the successful hosting of several high-level competitions. Victor Bologan briefed on the relevant arrangements for FIDE's 100th anniversary to be celebrated next year. He also noted that Shaoxing once held the "Belt and Road" Women's Chess International Open and looked forward to launching other major chess projects in the city.

Subsequently, both sides had in-depth exchanges on chess promotion and development in the future.