The message said, in part:
“Today the African states are playing an ever more noticeable role in the system of international relations. Following in the mainstream of world trends, processes are unfolding on the continent that will determine the future face of Africa: the emergence of regional integration and peace-keeping mechanisms, the strengthening of democratic institutions and the implementation of economic reforms.
“I am confident that the solution of the key tasks facing Africa – ending armed conflicts, ensuring political and economic stability and eradicating poverty – will contribute to the success of these issues. To achieve such ambitious goals concerted actions of Africans themselves and the whole world community are needed. It is not by chance that the UN, the G8 and other international organisations have been paying particular attention to African problems.
“We welcome the commitment of the African states to finding an adequate response to the challenges that confront the region. The start of the practical activity of the African Union is an important step in that direction. We consider the New Partnership for African Development put forward by the Organisation of African Unity as a timely and comprehensive initiative. We are ready to contribute to its implementation and support active international efforts to bring about a resurgence of the continent.
“In keeping with the good traditions of Russian-African relations, our country intends to steadily build up bilateral ties with the states on the continent. I hope that the joint goal-oriented work will ensure a level of mutually beneficial cooperation that will fully match the existing considerable potential and contribute to a secure and happy future for present and future generations.”