Cuban TV showing Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez (l) with Cuban President Fidel Castro (Sept, 2006)

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez says he plans to visit his close friend and ally Fidel Castro in Cuba on Monday.

PresidentChavez made the announcement during his regular Sunday television andradio programs.  The reason for his visit is not known.

Mr.Chavez last met with the former Cuban leader in March.  That visit tookplace shortly after Mr. Castro turned over power to his youngerbrother, Raul, after nearly 50 years.

Fidel Castro has not beenseen in public since July 2006 when he underwent intestinal surgery. He has, however, appeared in videos and photographs, and articlesattributed to him have been published in the state-run media.  Detailsof his health are considered a state secret.