Chavez Says Castro Recovering Quickly

In this photo released by Cuban Juventud Rebelde newspaper, Cuban Leader Fidel Castro speaks with Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez in Havana,Cuba, Friday, Sept.1, 2006.Cuban leader Fidel Castro, looking notably better than he did when last seen almost three weeks ago, happily greeted Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez during a brief visit aired on state television Friday.(AP Photo/Juventud Rebelde) (Juventud Reblede - AP)

CARACAS, Venezuela -- Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said Sunday Cuban leader Fidel Castro was recovering quickly after intestinal surgery that forced him to turn power over to his brother a month ago.

"Fidel is recovering well. The rapidity of his recovery surprised me," said Chavez, a close ally of Castro. Chavez made his third visit to the communist-led island in three weeks on Thursday.

"He's sits up, writes, has a telephone and gives orders, instructions," added Chavez, speaking during his weekly television and radio program.

Chavez has kept close tabs on Castro's health since the Cuban leader underwent surgery and temporarily handed over presidential power to his younger brother Raul on July 31.

Chavez visited Castro in Havana to mark his birthday on Aug. 13 and returned in late August before visiting China, Malaysia, Syria and Angola.

The specifics of Castro's ailment and the nature of his surgery have been treated as a state secret.