Pope Francis has announced that he will make his first official visit to Mexico early next year, according to BBC News.

The Vatican says the Pope's eight-day trip will begin on February 12.

Pope Francis is expected to address issues such as poverty, organised crime and discrimination against migrants who look for a better life in their own country or abroad.

He drew millions of people to the streets of four other Latin American countries earlier this year.

Pope Francis is expected to get a warm reception in Mexico, where more than 80% of the population are Catholics.

The Archbishop of Mexico City, Norberto Rivera Carrera, said the Pope would renew his calls for forgiveness and solidarity.

"He will surely address the issues of dignity, human rights and duties and the care we owe to the most vulnerable people in society, such as migrants," said Archbishop Rivera.