Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has shown "slight improvement" in his recovery from cancer surgery, Communication and Information Minister Ernesto Villegas said Monday.

In the latest official update on Chavez's post-operation state of health, the minister said on TV that the president "is experiencing a slight improvement in his condition, with a progressive tendency."

Chavez underwent a fourth round of surgery on Dec. 11 in Cuba since being first diagnosed with cancer in the pelvic region in June 2011.

"Commander Chavez continues to rigorously comply with absolute bed rest as ordered by his medical team," said Villegas, adding that the president had asked his aides "to convey to all Venezuelans his wishes for a Merry Christmas."

The health of the Venezuelan leader has been the subject of intense media coverage as his swearing-in ceremony for a third six-year term slated for Jan. 10 draws near.

Earlier Monday, Vice President Nicolas Maduro asked the press to avoid speculating whether Chavez will be well enough to take the oath of office as scheduled.

He said that if Chavez is unable to do the swearing-in at the National Assembly, he can do it later before the Supreme Court, as stipulated by law.

Chavez, he added, will be sworn in when he or his medical team decides that he can. Endi

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