Grandmasters Darmen Sadvakasov and Victor Bologan took part in chess events in Tokyo and Kyoto on 13–14 June 2026, as part of the Freedom Asian Chess Initiatives programme. The visit included simultaneous exhibitions, masterclasses and meetings with Japanese chess officials, with discussions focused on youth development, FIDE-rated tournaments and wider recognition of chess in Japan. A training camp for leading young Japanese players is planned for August. | Photos: FIDE

