Putin Calls for Stronger Russia-Africa Partnership in Africa Day Message To Continent Leaders

Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended warm congratulations to African Heads of State and Government on the occasion of Africa Day, calling for deeper cooperation between Russia and African nations.

In a message dated May 25, 2025, President Putin highlighted key historical milestones being marked this year, including the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the formation of the United Nations, as well as the 65th anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples.

“The defeat of Nazism and the collapse of the colonial system were the most important events of the 20th century,” he said, noting their role in creating space for global peace and development.

Putin praised the progress made by independent African states over the past decades, describing them as “respected members of the world community” with growing social and economic achievements. He commended multilateral cooperation efforts within the African Union and other regional blocs for promoting stability and security on the continent.

He pledged Russia’s support for Africa, citing the successful Russia-Africa summits held in 2019 and 2023, which helped identify new areas of collaboration and improved coordination in international affairs. Putin also noted the positive outcomes of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum and announced that another ministerial conference would be held in Africa before the end of the year.

“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,” the Russian president stated.

Putin’s message comes at a time when Moscow is actively working to strengthen its influence across Africa amid growing global geopolitical competition. The letter concluded with wishes of “peace and prosperity” for African citizens.

Africa Day, commemorated annually on May 25, marks the founding of the Organization of African Unity (now the African Union) in 1963.