Venezuela ? Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on Friday said his close friend and ally Fidel Castro has “almost totally recovered” from his illness and has resumed many of his duties as Cuba’s leader.

Speaking at a televised news conference, Chavez said the 80-year-old Cuban leader’s marked improvement was clear.

“Almost totally recovered is the very reliable information that I keep receiving,” Chavez said.

Chavez has regularly offered updates on Castro’s health in the more than eight months since the Cuban leader underwent emergency intestinal surgery and ceded his leadership responsibilities to his brother, Raul.

Castro hasn’t made any public appearances since undergoing surgery last July.

His condition and exact ailment remain a state secret.