New Delhi, April 4 -- Distinguished heads of delegations!

Ladies and gentlemen!

I am delighted to welcome you all at the first Central Asia - European Union Summit.

I would like to express the words of special appreciation to the President of the European Council, Mr.Antonio Costa, President of the European Commission, Ms. Ursula von der Leyen, and all my colleagues - the leaders of the countries of the region, for supporting our initiative to hold the summit at this very place, the ancient city of Samarkand.

For many centuries, this renowned city, located at the main crossroads of the Great Silk Road, was an important center for dialogue of civilizations, diplomatic, trade and cultural exchanges between the East and the West.

Many h...