Castro to return 'in a few weeks': Cuba

"Fidel's going to be around for another 80 years," Vice President Carlos Lage said. Castro turns 80 next Sunday.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said Castro was out of bed and talking following his surgery as messages wishing the Cuban leader a quick recovery poured in from Latin America's leading leftists and Elian Gonzalez.

Lage, in Bolivia to attend the country's constitutional assembly, was asked by reporters when Castro would be back at work.

"In a few weeks, he'll be recovered and he'll return to his duties," Lage said.

Lage had earlier denied reports Castro had stomach cancer and reiterated Sunday the Cuban leader was recovering well.

"The operation that he underwent was successful and he is recovering favourably," Lage said.

Cuban officials have provided no details and released no pictures of Castro since his surgery was announced last Monday fuelling speculation around the world about his condition. His brother Raul Castro, the defence minister, also has not been seen in public since the announcement.

"How are you, Fidel?" Chavez said during his weekly TV and radio programme, suggesting he believed the Cuban leader was watching. "We have reliable information of your quick and notable recuperation."

"Fidel Castro, a hug for you, friend and comrade, and I know you are getting better," Chavez said.