Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is reportedly resting comfortably after a delicate surgery in Cuba to remove cancerous cells.
Vice President Nicolas Maduro addressed the nation.
(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) VICE PRESIDENT NICOLAS MADURO SAYING:
"It was a complicated surgery. The doctors have been in permanent communication with us. We have been in permanent communication with his (Chavez's) family both in Cuba and in Barinas and we have gone through very tense moments. But fortunately, once again, our comandante has shown his strength."
This is the fourth procedure for Chavez since last year.
Doctors found more cancerous cells after he won re-election in October leading him to name Maduro as his successor should he need to step down.
The 58 year old is slated to start another six year term in January.
