Cambodia is one of the seven countries selected for the Freedom Asian Chess Initiatives (FACI) 2026 project. Cambodia were also part of the project last year. Kazakhstani coach Askarov Bakhtiyar coached the Cambodian team last year under the initiative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Kingdom’s selection was announced by the Kazakhstan Chess Federation after vetting applications from the Asian continent. The application period for the new stage of the initiative, implemented with the support of Freedom Holding Corp., FIDE, and the Asian Chess Federation (ACF), concluded in early January.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Following a comprehensive review of applications, joining Cambodia in the project are Japan, Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Pakistan and Turkmenistan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The selection was based on compliance with the project criteria and the potential for sustainable chess development in the respective countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The FACI project aims to foster at the sustainable development of chess across Asia through strengthening national federations, enhancing professional training standards, and promoting international cooperation. The program includes training camps, educational seminars, and support for participation in international competitions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In 2025, FACI supported seven national chess federations: Oman, Cambodia, Nepal, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, Jordan, and Pakistan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The participating countries demonstrated strong sporting results, including prize-winning finishes at international tournaments. Several federations also received grant support to participate in the FIDE World Cadet Chess Championship held in Almaty, providing young players with valuable experience competing at the highest international level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
KazChess congratulated the selected federations on becoming part of FACI 2026 and hoped the initiative would open new opportunities, and contribute to the continued growth and unity of the Asian chess community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n