ABU DHABI: The 18th edition of the UAE President Cup Championship 2012 on Thursday was launched by Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa bin Shakhbout Al Nahyan, President of the Asian Chess Federation in Abu Dhabi.

The championship is hosted by the Abu Dhabi Chess and Culture Club at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche between 28 June and 5 July.

Present at the opening ceremony were officials from the Abu Dhabi Chess Club, the Arab Chess Federation and participants.

The first round of the championship concluded Friday morning.

WAM/MMYS