Cuba's ex-leader Castro 'strong'

Source: BBC News

Cuba's ex-leader Fidel Castro is looking strong and remains on top of developments at home and abroad, says a world health chief.

Dr Margaret Chan, head of the World Health Organization, was granted an audience with Mr Castro this week.

Mr Castro has not been seen in public for more than three years, since a series of major intestinal operations.

The only updates on his health come from visiting dignitaries who have been able to meet him.

Read more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/8331069.stm

From the O.P.:

Speaking at a news conference in Havana, Dr Chan said that Cuba's 83-year-old former leader remained well informed and as demanding as ever.

"I have to say Mr Fidel Castro's understanding of the importance of health, particularly public health, is impressive.

"Any one of you, especially the doctors, if you don't know your subject well, don't talk to him. He knows more about the subject than you do."

We've heard one after another guests who've spoken with him after dinner for HOURS at a time, that he is an indefatigable listener, someone who asks questions after questions, and really seems determined to learn everything he can about their areas of expertise.

It was also mentioned by a Minnesota cattle rancher, Ralph Kaehler, who attended the first American exhibition of agribusiness products they held in Havana, when very limited trade opened up soon after Hurricane Michelle wiped out their food supplies, and the US moved ahead to allow Cuba to buy limited varieties of U.S. food products.

http://www.breedingcattlepage.com.nyud.net:8090/minnsimmental/images/012003/Kaehler2_small.jpg http://www.breedingcattlepage.com.nyud.net:8090/minnsimmental/images/012003/Kaehler1.jpg

We've heard this remark also from U.S. politicians who've gone to speak with him, as well as U.S. actors, etc.

Sounds as if he's becoming his familiar self again, after his long struggle.