On his 80th birthday, President Fidel Castro has sent out an encouraging message on his state of health, which has considerably improved. He confirms that the country is running perfectly well. “I promise everyone who has wished me good health that I will fight for it.”

<##IMAGE##>Dear compatriots and friends of Cuba and the rest of the world:

Today, August 13, I have reached 80 years of age.

To say that my objective stability has considerably improved is not to invent a lie.

To affirm that my recuperation will not take long and that there is no risk whatsoever would be absolutely incorrect.

I suggest to everyone to be optimistic and, at the same time, always be prepared to face up to adverse news.

To my comrades in struggle, eternal glory for resisting and overcoming the empire, thus demonstrating that a better world is possible.

Today, August 13, I feel very happy.

I promise everyone who has wished me good health that I will fight for it.