The message reads, in part:

“This important date celebrates the victory of the African continent’s peoples in their fight for freedom and independence and their desire for unity in the name of peace, stability, and sustainable development.

African countries have made great strides in their social, economy, scientific, technological and cultural development and play an increasingly important part in building a fair and democratic multipolar world order.

Russia highly values the African Union’s constructive efforts, and those of other regional organisations in Africa to resolve local conflicts and crises and accelerate integration processes on the continent.

It is a pleasure to note the friendly partnership that has evolved in relations between the Russian Federation and the African countries. I would like to reaffirm our desire to continue developing multifaceted and mutually advantageous ties, as well as Russia’s continued participation in the various programmes and projects for Africa, carried out through the UN, the G20, and BRICS”.

Mr Putin wished the peoples of Africa peace and prosperity.