Narendra Modi gifts historic chess scoresheet to Uzbekistan President

During a visit to Tashkent, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev with a unique chess-related gift: the original handwritten scoresheet from Grandmaster Javokhir Sindarov’s victory in the 2025 FIDE World Cup final held in Goa. The scoresheet, which features a photo of Sindarov on a leatherette cover, commemorates the Uzbek player's historic win against China's Wei Yi.

Nitin Narang, head of the All India Chess Federation, described the gesture as ‘chess diplomacy,’ noting how the item connects the two nations through their shared passion for the sport. Both India and Uzbekistan have emerged as major powers in international chess, featuring top young talents such as India’s Gukesh D and Praggnanandhaa, and Uzbekistan’s Sindarov and Nodirbek Abdusattorov.

In addition to the scoresheet, Prime Minister Modi provided traditional Indian items, including premium Kangra tea and a sandalwood Shata Tantri Veena. The diplomatic exchange occurs as Uzbekistan prepares to host the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand from September 15–27.