Greetings to African heads of state and government

The message reads, in part:

"Please accept my warmest wishes on the occasion of Africa Day, which serves as a symbol of victory of the people of your continent over colonialism and their aspiration to freedom, peace and prosperity.

African countries have achieved impressive results in the economy and social affairs and have been playing an increasingly prominent role in addressing urgent matters on the international agenda. Constructive cooperation has been gaining traction within the African Union and several subregional organisations. There are also emerging collective response mechanisms for dealing with local conflicts and crisis situations, along with consistent efforts to promote integration processes.

The Russian Federation attaches great importance to strengthening the traditional ties of friendship with African countries. What unites us is the aspiration to build a multipolar world order with greater justice and based on a genuine sense of equality, the rule of international law and free from any forms of discrimination or dictate.

I am convinced that the third Russia - Africa Summit, which is scheduled to take place in October in Moscow, will help outline new perspectives for promoting mutually beneficial cooperation between our country and its African partners across various domains.

I am looking forward to welcoming African leaders in Moscow."