The Pakistan High Commission in Bangladesh, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Chess Federation, successfully organized the second edition of the Mian Sultan Khan Chess Tournament on Saturday (8 February, 2025). This event was held in honor of the legendary chess player Mian Sultan Khan and reflected the growing interest in chess among the people of Bangladesh.
The tournament took place at the premises of the Pakistan High Commission and saw the participation of nearly 200 players, including diplomats, professionals, students, and chess enthusiasts. This diverse engagement significantly contributed to the promotion of chess as a popular sport.
The event was graced by Mustafa Sarwar Farooqui, Bangladesh’s Cultural Affairs Advisor, as the chief guest. Other distinguished guests included Syed Shujauddin Ahmed, President of the Bangladesh Chess Federation; Ashrafuddin Ahmed Ujjal, Cultural Secretary of the BNP; Grandmaster Niaz Morshed; and Bangladesh’s first international master, Rani Hamid.
Among the diplomatic attendees were the Ambassador of the Philippines, Nina P. Kinglet; the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, Dharmapala Werakkodi; and the High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam, Haji Haris bin Usman, along with other diplomats based in Dhaka.
Saqlain Mustafa Sajid emerged as the champion, while Manon Reza Neer secured the runner-up position. Subrata Biswas and Naeem Haque finished in third and fourth places, respectively.
The winners were presented with trophies and cash prizes by Cultural Affairs Advisor Mustafa Sarwar Farooqui and Pakistan High Commissioner Syed Ahmed Maruf.
In his closing speech, Advisor Farooqui praised the Pakistan High Commission for organizing an international chess competition in Bangladesh and assured government support for such initiatives in the future.
Pakistan High Commissioner Syed Ahmed Maruf emphasized that sporting events play a vital role in fostering friendly relations among nations. He noted that the tournament aimed to honor Mian Sultan Khan’s legacy while bringing together chess enthusiasts and the diplomatic community.
At the start of the tournament, the High Commissioner expressed his condolences on the passing of Prince Karim Aga Khan (IV) and acknowledged his immense contributions to humanitarian causes. A moment of silence was observed in his memory.
In his concluding remarks, the High Commissioner congratulated all winners and participants, expressing optimism for the successful organization of the third Mian Sultan Khan Chess Tournament next year. He extended his gratitude to the Cultural Affairs Advisor, diplomats, grandmasters, international masters, and media personnel for their valuable participation and support.
