KARACHI: Pakistan's top notch chess star and International Master Mahmood Lodhi has been invited to participate in the Al-Fajr International Chess Tournament, scheduled to be held in Tehran from February 14 to 21.

“It is a great honor for me and the country that I have been extended invitation for this prestigious Grand Masters event,” the 12-time national champion told newsmen here on Tuesday evening.

Lodhi, who has been appointed as Parco Ambassador of Mindsport for his outstanding contribution to chess, said top grand masters from Central Asian Republics, Russia, Middle East and other countries would be taking part in the 8-day competition.

“My goal during the year is to improve my rating and gain the GM title by participating in maximum international events,” Gujranwala- born Lodhi said.

He informed that after the Al-Fajr International, he plans to appear in major events being staged in Dubai and Serbia during March and April. He thanked the Mindsports Association of Pakistan (MSAP) and its Director Tariq Rasheed Khan for supporting him in securing sponsorships for international events from Pak Arab Refinery Company.

He said because of his consistent show last year, he raised his FIDE rating to 2400, the best-ever by any player in Pakistan chess history.—APP