The Russian president extended his regards on the occasion of Africa Day, highlighting the historic milestones in his country's relations with the continent

Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended his regards to the heads of state across Africa on the occasion of Africa Day, expressing confidence that joint efforts will lead to the further strengthening of Russia-Africa relations, the Kremlin press service reported on Sunday.  

"I am confident that through joint efforts we will ensure the further expansion of multifaceted Russian-African ties for the benefit of our peoples, in the interests of building a fair and democratic multipolar world order," the president stated. 

"This year is marked by anniversaries: the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the formation of the United Nations, as well as the 65th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples," Putin noted.

He emphasized that the defeat of Nazism and the dismantling of the colonial system were among the defining events of the 20th century, enabling nations around the world to pursue peaceful and independent development. 

The Russian president also praised the progress made by African countries since gaining independence, saying they had "achieved recognized success in the economic and social spheres." He underscored the role of the African Union and regional organizations in promoting security and stability on the continent. 

Putin reiterated that Russia has consistently advocated for deepening traditionally friendly relations with African nations. "This is fully evidenced by the Russia-Africa summits held in 2019 and 2023, which made it possible to identify new areas of cooperation and facilitated the coordination of efforts in international affairs," the president added. 

The statement also included an announcement that the next ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership forum is scheduled to take place later this year in an African country.

On the same day, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that "today, our relations are developing on an upward trajectory, and building a truly strategic partnership with Africa is one of the priorities of Russia's foreign policy."

Africa Day is celebrated on May 25 to commemorate the establishment of the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union, in 1963.