Luanda,  – The Angolan minister of Culture, Rosa Cruz e Silva, has  encouraged cultural groups to engage in the preparation for the opening ceremony of the African Football  Cup of Nations (CAN2010), set for January 10-31 in the country, Angop learnt.

The minister was part of a delegation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports that visited on Saturday, Cidadela complex, venue for the rehearsal.

She on the occasion expressed satisfaction at the engagement of youngsters in the rehearsal  for an inaugural ceremony at the heights of the country.

Speaking to Angop, the minister mentioned the participation of soldiers of the Angolan Armed  Forces (FAA) that, in her opinion, are playing an exemplary and decisive role in the preparation of the groups of gymnastics and others.

The minister said that “we will have an opportunity to show to the world all cultural aspects of the country”, said the minister, adding that Angola has traditional values that should be safeguarded.

After a short visit to the Cidadela complex, the team led by the minister of Youth and Sports, Gonçalves Muandumba, left for Cacuaco district, where 500 youngsters are being prepared  for the cultural activities of the inaugural ceremony of the CAN2010.