Moscow is prepared to interact with all countries and build mutually beneficial cooperation on the principles of equality and non-interference, he said in his speech, receiving letters of credence from 23 newly-appointed foreign ambassadors in a ceremony held in the Grand Kremlin Palace’s Alexander Hall.

Putin describes in brief the state of relations between Russia and each of the countries the ambassadors represent. The ceremony, which officially marks the start of their diplomatic activities in the Russian Federation, attended by the heads of diplomatic missions of 23 countries of Europe, Asia, Africa, America and Australia.

Among them, there were six African envoys: Jose Mateus Muaria Katupha (Republic of Mozambique), Dr Khesvar Jankee (Republic of Mauritius), Mahamoud Adam Bechir (Republic of Chad), Alfredo Cristovao Gomes Lopes (Republic of Guinea-Bissau), Benson H.O. Ogutu (Republic of Kenya) and Mzuvukile Jeff Maqetuka (Republic of South Africa).

With the Republic of Mozambique, Putin stressed that it is Russia’s time-tested partner on the African continent. "We have mutual interest in further building up contacts in the political field and strengthening cooperation in such areas as energy, hydrocarbons production and chemical fertilizer production,” he said.

With the Republic of Mauritius, Putin informed that it has traditionally been partner-like and based on mutual respect. There is room for deepening trade and economic interaction and for boosting cooperation in the fields of marine and air transport, fisheries and tourism.

With the Republic of Chad, Putin referred to the strengthening of Russia’s political and economic ties that will mutually interest both countries. "Russian companies are supplying machinery, equipment and other industrial products necessary for the economic modernization of Chad. We will continue to provide assistance to your country within the framework of the UN World Food Programme and to train national personnel for you, including for your armed forces,” he said.

With the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, Putin says Russia is open to a joint search for promising and mutually beneficial areas of cooperation and joint projects. "We intend to continue working to boost bilateral contacts in trade, the economy, investment and culture and coordination in international and regional affairs, including the strengthening of peace and security on the African continent,” he said.

With the Republic of Kenya, Putin assertively pointed out that a constructive partnership has been established with the country. "Both our countries are interested in promoting bilateral political, trade, economic and cultural cooperation. We will do everything in our power to promote this agenda and will continue to train Kenyan students at Russian universities,” he said. 

With the South African Republic, Putin noted in his speech that partnership between Russia and South Africa dates back to the days of its struggle against apartheid and has now reached a truly strategic level.

"We are working closely within BRICS to strengthen the association’s role in global affairs. We effectively coordinate our actions on other international platforms, including the UN and the G20. In the spirit of friendship and mutual respect, we are ready to deepen bilateral ties in trade, the economy and investment in the future,” he said.

The newly arrived ambassadors have important and serious diplomatic tasks: to promote the development of comprehensive relations, make conscious efforts in strengthening trade and economic ties, deepening cultural exchanges and promoting people-to-people contacts, facilitating stronger friendship and mutual understanding between their countries and the Russian Federation.