President Putin Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Russia–Africa Ties on Africa Day

Addis Ababa, May 25, 2025 (FMC) — Russian President Vladimir Putin extended warm greetings to African leaders on the occasion of Africa Day, reaffirming Russia’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with the continent.

In his message addressed to Heads of State and Government across Africa, President Putin underscored the historic significance of 2025, marking major global anniversaries including the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the founding of the United Nations, and the 65th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples.

He noted that “the defeat of Nazism and the collapse of the colonial system were the most important events of the 20th century, paving the way for free and peaceful development for all humankind,” adding that African countries have since established themselves as respected members of the global community with widely acknowledged progress in economic and social development.

President Putin praised the role of the African Union and sub-regional organizations in promoting peace and stability across the continent.

He also highlighted Russia’s consistent support for deepening relations with African partners, referring to the Russia-Africa summits held in 2019 and 2023 as key milestones that opened new areas of cooperation and enhanced coordination on international issues.

A new mechanism – the ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum – is already delivering positive outcomes, he stated, with the next session scheduled to take place later this year in an African country.

“I am confident that through joint efforts we will ensure 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,” President Putin said.

He concluded his message by wishing health and success to African leaders and peace and prosperity to the people of the continent.