The message said, in part:
“For nearly four decades Africa’s struggle for freedom, independence and progress has been linked with the Organisation of African Unity and its activity. Most of these goals have been achieved, but the continuation of the traditions of pan-African unity is currently facing new challenges. The main challenges are the maintenance of peace and stability, sustainable development and the overcoming of the acute social problems facing the region’s countries.
“We would like to hope that the establishment and work of the African Union will not only promote the rebirth of Africa, but also consolidate the African countries’ prestige that they rightfully enjoy in the world.
“We regard the organisation’s large-scale programme ‘New Partnership for African Development’ as the first step in this direction. Russia is ready to contribute to its implementation as part of the wide-ranging international efforts. We believe that the plan of action adopted by the G8 leaders at the summit in Kananaskis will give a new momentum for cooperation with the African states and support for their long-range measures aimed at achieving peace and welfare in the region.
“Russia as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a member of the G8 is interested in the African continent overcoming hardships and following the path of genuine prosperity. The harmonious development of the international community is not possible without that.
“Russia, for its part, will continue to work actively with all African countries in the political, trade, economic, cultural, humanitarian and other spheres.”