Fidel Castro (file photo)

A Cuban newspaper has published an article with the signature of Fidel Castro whose health has been a matter of rumor and speculation.

Mr. Castro's column on the history of Cuba's revolution appeared Sunday in the Communist Youth newspaper Juventud Rebelde.

He was last seen in public in July of 2006 when he provisionally handed power to his younger brother, Raul, due to intestinal surgery.

Cuban state television has not aired video of Mr. Castro since June 5. On August 13, his 81st birthday, Mr. Castro remained out of public view.

Last week, Cuba's foreign minister told reporters Mr. Castro was doing well and recovering from last year's surgery. Cuban officials have refused to release details of President Castro's condition, saying his health is a state secret.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.