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Smiling Castro seen on TV
14/09/2006 13:34 - (SA)
Havana - Ailing but smiling, Fidel Castro was shown on Cuban state television on Wednesday in a series of new still photos, dressed in a dark robe and chatting effusively with a guest.
An animated but gaunt-looking Castro, who said earlier this month that the worst of his health crisis was over after shedding 18.5kg, was shown in a hospital-type setting seated, talking and gesticulating with Miguel Bonasso, a personal representative of Argentine President Nestor Kirchner for the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit meeting in Havana.
It was the third time the legendary Cuban leader has been shown in photos or footage in Cuban media since he ceded power temporarily - for the first time in almost 48 years - to his brother Raul on July 31 after intestinal surgery.
Fidel, appearing less pale than in some earlier photos and clad in a navy silk robe and with a black watch on, was shown smiling over espresso coffee cups with Bonasso.
Details on Castro's health are generally regarded as a state secret for security reasons.
Castro may appear at NAM summit
Speculation has been widespread that Fidel Castro might appear in person at events related to the summit of developing nations, which runs through to Saturday.
Opening ministerial talks at the Havana gathering on Wednesday, Carlos Lage, the vice president of the Council of State, was upbeat.
"These days in Havana will be days of work and optimism: while the Non-Aligned Movement gets stronger, Fidel is recovering."
Argentina is not currently a member of the NAM but is a special guest.
- AFP
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