Lula sees Castro exceptionally healthy

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva says Cuba’s revolutionary leader Fidel Castro looks “exceptionally well” after years of ailment.

On his last official visit to Cuba before the end of his tenure, Lula met with the former Cuban leader in Havana and discussed a number of international issues in an “emotional” get-together, Cuba’s media reported.

Lula said that Castro appeared “much different” and healthier this time after recuperating mostly from an intestinal surgery.

The two allies also spoke about the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark and conversed on the recent Rio Summit in Mexico.

The 83-year-old Fidel led Cuba for almost five decades after sweeping to power in a 1959 revolution.

He ceded power to his younger brother Raul Castro after the intestinal ailment in July 2006.

Fidel is said to still have a behind-the-scenes role in the government. He also keeps a high profile through his writings.

After Lula, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is scheduled to visit Fidel soon, the Cuban media said.