Djiboutian sports administrator Yassin Souleiman Hassan has been elected Vice President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), marking a significant milestone for Djibouti’s growing presence in international sports governance.
The election took place during FIDE’s General Assembly in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, where delegates from national chess federations around the world selected the organization’s leadership team for the new term.
Yassin Souleiman currently serves as President of the Djibouti Chess Federation and heads FIDE Zone 4.4, which oversees chess development across several countries in the region.
His election places him among the senior officials responsible for helping shape the future direction, policies, and strategic priorities of the world’s governing body for chess.
FIDE, founded in Paris in 1924 and headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, is recognized as the international authority for chess and represents more than 200 national federations worldwide.
The organization oversees major global competitions, including the World Chess Championship and the Chess Olympiad.
Djibouti’s National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSD) welcomed the election, describing it as a major achievement for the country and a reflection of Djibouti’s growing influence in international sports institutions.
“This election is a source of immense pride for the Republic of Djibouti,” the committee said in a statement.
The committee also praised Yassin Souleiman’s long-standing commitment to promoting and developing chess at both the national and international levels.
According to the CNOSD, his election recognizes not only his personal contributions but also the capabilities and professionalism of Djiboutian sports administrators on the global stage.
Observers say the appointment could further strengthen Djibouti’s role in international sporting decision-making and provide new opportunities for the country to contribute to the development of chess across Africa and beyond.
The election comes as Djibouti continues efforts to increase its visibility and participation in international sports organizations, with officials viewing representation in global governing bodies as an important avenue for advancing the country’s sporting ambitions.
Yassin Souleiman’s elevation to one of FIDE’s top leadership positions is being celebrated as a landmark achievement for Djiboutian chess and a significant step forward for the nation’s presence in global sports administration.