The letter said, in part:
“Russia highly appreciates the ECOWAS’ efforts in promoting political and economic integration and strengthening trust and understanding. Your activities aimed at preventing and dealing with emergency situations, fighting arms trafficking and transnational crime in the region are of great importance. I strongly believe that the Community, the UN and the Organisation of African Unity will make a considerable contribution to settling conflicts, securing peace and safety, and promoting stability on the African continent.
“The Russian Federation attaches a high priority to reinforcing its long-established friendly relations with the ECOWAS member countries, and seeks to deepen their mutually beneficial multilateral and bilateral cooperation. I am sure that by joining forces we can introduce new developments in our relations, and use the huge potential of our partnership to the utmost.”