Culture Minister G. Kishan Reddy today called for acknowledging the mutual historical, traditional and ancient links between India and Central Asia and to come together for further strengthening of cultural bonds. Hosting the first India-Central Asia Culture Ministers' Meeting virtually, Mr Reddy also referred to the eternal teachings of non-violence preached by Buddha. He stated that shared Buddhist heritage is a cherished spiritual bond which needs to be further cultivated and propagated for harmonious relations.<br />'' <br />'' The Culture Ministers of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan also participated in the meeting. The Ministers presented their perspective to take forward their leaders' commitment to further strengthening cultural cooperation in the region.<br />'' <br />''In the meeting, Indian side proposed a Joint Statement in testimony, to which the participants agreed to convey their consent at the earliest to acknowledge the meeting and its continuance at regular intervals.