Huambo — King Ekuikui IV of Bailundo (central Huambo province), Augusto Kachitiopolo, this Wednesday said that Pope Benedict XVI's visit to Angola will strengthen the Catholic Church and bring happiness to Christians who profess the same faith.

Speaking to ANGOP, king Ekuikui IV affirmed that he was very thrilled with the news of the visit to be paid by the highest leader of the church, because it shall be a moment of cultivating the spirit of reconciliation and pacifying minds.

The king stated that the Pope's visit is not only designed for Catholics, but also for the Angolan people, notwithstanding their religion.

King Ekuikui IV also affirmed that sovereign pontiff will visit the country at a phase when the government is committed to the reconstruction and construction of new infrastructures, for the wellbeing of Angolans.

Pope Benedict XVI will visit Angola from 20 to 23 March 2009, at the invitation of the Angolan Head of State, José Eduardo dos Santos.