Central Asia is currently going through a new phase of development based on multilateral mechanisms, with countries tapping potential for cooperation in transportation, energy and agriculture. It is also well observed that the establishment of the New Silk Road has reconnected the economy, trade, culture and politics of the East and the West.

The government of Kyrgyzstan has made great progress in economic development, with GDP growth of 8 percent in the first eight months of this year.

Zhantoro Satybaldiyev, prime minister of Kyrgyzstan

We gather here to discuss the integration of regional economies, to establish investment and trade passages and to seek common development. The current world economy is still unstable, and countries in Eurasia need to launch economic reforms to address new challenges and meet the demand of sustainable development - a model that is more inclusive so that one country can share the benefit of another country's growth. Mongolia, as a hub between Asia and Europe, will further open up to investors from the two regions, especially in the energy, mining and high-tech industries. Our country will also actively engage in other regional mechanisms for economic cooperation and participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization as an observer.

Radnaasumberel Gonchigdorj, vice-chairman of Mongolia's State Great Khural

Nowadays, the integration and fierce competition of the global market have made it crucial for countries in the same continent to engage in dialogues and mechanisms to promote economic development. Against the backdrop of the continuous integration of Eurasia, Belarus has always been active in enhancing ties with China to seek new opportunities.

Nikolai Snopkov, minister of economy of Belarus

The focus of the China-Eurasia Expo is to promote regional cooperation. Tajikistan has been actively involved in building political trust with the Chinese government. The two countries have formed a strategic partnership. China has participated in infrastructure projects, such as roads and energy, as well as in Tajikistan's mining industry. We are not only good neighbors but also good partners. The expo could help countries deepen economic and trade cooperation as well as establish new ventures in further cooperation.

Matlubkhon Davlatov, first deputy prime minister of Tajikistan

The first challenge for the development of Eurasian countries is to translate economic gains into human development. The second challenge is the environment issue. The region also suffers from global warming, desertification and water pollution, posing particular problems for low-income households. We've seen China and other Eurasian countries making great efforts to combat environmental problems. We believe environmental protection should stay high on the list of prioritized issues.

Helen Clark, administrator of the United Nations Development Programme

(China Daily 09/03/2013 page11)