Russia to Expand Relations with Africa, as Continent Marks National Day

By Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Russian government has expressed desire to expand relations with Africa, particularly those countries it has diplomatic relations with.
President of the Russian federation, Vladimir Putin, made the disclosure in a congratulatory message sent to heads of state and government of African countries on the occasion of the African ‘National Day.’ 
According to a statement issued by the Russian embassy in Abuja, President Putin, recognised the developmental strides the continent had achieved since gaining independent as well as efforts towards economic integration both at the subregions and the region.
While commending Africa’s strong visibility in international affairs, Putin in the statement pledged the desire of Russia to support and partner with Africa for greater development.
The statement read, “Please accept my sincere congratulations on the occasion of Africa Day, a significant holiday symbolising the aspirations of the peoples of your continent to freedom, peace and unity.
“For decades of independent development, African countries have achieved considerable success in social and economic spheres. Within the framework of the African Union, as well as thier regional and sub-regional associations, mutually beneficial integration processes are being promoted, and coordination of actions to resolve local conflicts and crises has been established.”
“Russia government notes with satisfactions the growing role of African States in international affairs and supports the efforts to build a just and democratic world order, and to counter terrorism, extremism, trans-border crime, and other threats and challenges to regional and global security.
“Let me reiterate that the Russian Federation is ready to expand the traditionally friendly relations with African partners, both bilaterally and in various multilateral formats, and to continue its active participation in the programs of assistance for Africa under the auspices of the UN, G20, and BRICS”.

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