SOCHI, October 23. /TASS/. Russia supports the independent policy of African states, and it will aid Africa in the fight against terrorism and other threats, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday during the formal reception in honor of heads of state and government of the Russia-Africa summit in Sochi.

"We have always supported the commitment of African states to carry out independent policy and to resolve the continent’s issues autonomously. We plan to continue aiding the efforts of our African partners aimed at regulating local crises, countering terrorism and extremism, transnational crime and drug trafficking, as well as other current security threats and challenges," the Russian leader said.

"Russia plans to continue actively cooperating with its African partners in accordance with the principles of equality, friendship and mutual trust," Putin noted.

The Russian leader added that Russia and Africa have a long history of cooperation, namely during the period of African countries establishing themselves as independent states. "Our country unequivocally supported the African people in their fight for independence and sovereignty. Our specialists helped African states to overcome poverty and to develop their economy. We have taken part in the construction of industrial and agricultural facilities, along with social institutions, such as hospitals and schools, and in the establishment and equipment of capable armed forces," Putin said. He added that dozens of thousands African students of various professions are currently studying in Russia.

Putin expressed his confidence that the outcomes of the Russia-Africa summit will facilitate further development of multilateral ties between Russia and African states. At the end of his address, the Russian leader proposed a toast to honor the heads of delegations present at the delegation. Putin raised a glass "to successful joint efforts on developing full-fledged mutually beneficial cooperation, to peaceful future and to prosperity" of the Russian and African people.

On October 23-24, the resort city of Sochi is hosting the Russia-Africa Summit, co-chaired by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Egypt’s head of state Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. The leaders of all 54 African countries have been invited to come, and at least 40 of them have already confirmed their participation. Eight major African integration associations and organizations are also involved in the event. On the summit’s sidelines, an economic forum will take place, which will be attended by the continent’s heads of state, and representatives of the business community and government agencies. The Roscongress Foundation is the organizer of the event, and TASS is the official photo host agency of the summit and economic forum.