Pope Benedict XVI will visit Cuba in the spring. 

The Vatican confirmed the plans Thursday, paving the way for the 85-year-old pontiff's first ever visit to the communist country. Pope Benedict will also visit Mexico. 

The two countries are home to half of the world's Catholic population. The last pontiff to visit Cuba was John Paul II in 1998 -- a mission that was considered historic at that time.

Cuban exiles in Miami's Little Havana neighborhood reacted Thursday to news of the pope's plans. 

"I think it's a message of hope and faith," said Fanny Gonzalez, who was born in Cuba. 

"I think it will bring hope because that something that they're lacking. Things are so dire over there," said Gus Rodrigo, also born in Cuba. 

The Vatican was expected to release a more detailed itinerary by next week. The trip's mission will be one of peace and reconciliation, according to a statement from the Vatican. 

A prior trip by Pope John Paul II focused on easing tensions with the communist country and playing a key role in the release of jailed dissidents.