Havana, Cuba ? Cuban TV late Friday showed a recovering Fidel Castro sitting up, writing a note and bantering with Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez in the first video images of the Cuban leader since his 80th birthday Aug. 13.

The images are only the third set shown following the surprise announcement July 31 that Castro had undergone gastrointestinal surgery and temporarily transferred power to his brother, 75-year-old Raul Castro. The previous video showed Fidel Castro more frail, lying in bed, not sitting up.

Castro’s health condition and whereabouts are regarded as a state secret, leaving many in Cuba eager for more information. Cuban TV said the video shows his recovery is “satisfactory.”

Cuban media said Chavez spent more than two hours Friday morning with Castro. Video showed Chavez greeted with hugs at the airport by Raul Castro and top Cuban leaders.