The letter said, in part:
“Forty years ago African nations voted for freedom, peace and independence, and became full-fledged members of the international community. During this period, African countries have made a sizable contribution to the settlement of key modern problems and the strengthening of partnership in the interests of developing a fair world based on the unconditional supremacy of international law.
“We welcome the efforts that have been made by the nations of Africa in the prevention and settlement of crises, the strengthening of stability in the region and the creation of conditions for stable social and economic development. We believe that the activities of the African Union and the intensification of integration processes at the subregional level will promote the accomplishment of these large-scale tasks.
“Russia and its G8 partners as well as other states and international organisations will continue to provide assistance to African countries, including in the implementation of the New Partnership for Africa's Development programme (NEPAD).
“I am confident that the recent progress of the Russian-African political dialogue, successful development of mutually beneficial trade, economic and other partnership will help to realise the huge potential of our cooperation.”