Pope's health improving

Pope John Paul II's health "continues to be good", he is eating regularly and has begun rehabilitation exercises for his breathing and speech following his throat operation, Vatican spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls said in a statement on Monday.

"The Holy Father is eating regularly, spends some hours in an armchair and has begun exercises to rehabilitate breathing and speaking," the statement said, adding that the next bulletin on the 84-year-old's condition would be issued on Thursday.

The pontiff, who had a tracheotomy to ease acute respiratory problems within hours of being readmitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital last Thursday, has suffered no post-operative complications, according to the statement.

"The Holy Father's post-operative phase is taking place without complications, his general condition and biological parameters continue to be good," it said.

John Paul II made a brief appearance at his hospital window on Sunday - making the sign of the cross and waving to pilgrims - the first time he has been seen in public since his hospitalisation.