External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said India and Central Asia share ancient historical and cultural linkages and Central Asia is considered as India's 'extended neighbourhood. <br />'' <br />''In his welcome remarks at the  second meeting of the India-Central Asia Dialogue which was held today in  digital video-conference format, he said, India shares a common geography which facilitated continuous exchange of people, ideas and goods in both directions and left indelible imprints on our customs, traditions and languages.<br />'' <br />''The External Affairs Minister  said, a new chapter in the relationship began nearly 30 years ago after the emergence of independent Central Asian countries.<br />'' <br />''He said,  India was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the Central Asian countries and the relationship has grown since then from strength to strength.<br />'' <br />''Dr S Jaishankar said, India and Central Asian countries face common challenges of terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking and such other issues and all these commonalities make us a natural partner in developmental journey.<br />'' <br />''<span style="color: #222222;">He said, as developing countries, they also share common perspectives on opportunities and challenges for the their development and prosperity.</span><br />