The 12th World Champion
A.E. Karpov
Dear Anatoly Evgenievich,
On behalf of the World Chess Federation uniting 187 member-Federations and me personally, please accept our most cordial congratulations on your 65th anniversary!
Your outstanding achievements have become an important contribution to the improvement of the world chess image and popularization of our favourite sport.
Your brilliant chess career, devotion to chess, modesty, tactfulness and high professionalism make you a role-model to all chess players. As a deputy of the State Duma, you actively participate in the promotion of this wisest game, by opening chess schools and organizing tournaments not only for youth and grown-up players, but in penitentiary institutions.
You enjoy well-deserved respect and gratitude of all who have had a chance to cooperate with you by your indefatigable actions for the sake of world chess, erudition and your principal attitude.
It is my pleasure and honour to wish you, dear Anatoly Evgenievich, the best of health, prosperity, unending optimism, high spirits and further many years of success in our service to our common cause!
Kirsan Ilyumzhinov
FIDE President