(CNN) -- Former South African leader Nelson Mandela was "responding better to treatment" on Wednesday, President Jacob Zuma told the country's Parliament. Mandela, 94, has been in serious but stable condition since being rushed to a Pretoria hospital with a recurring lung infection, the president's office has said. On Wednesday, Zuma signaled some optimism. "I am happy to report that Madiba is responding better to treatment from this morning," Zuma told Parliament ahead of a budget address, using the clan name by which Mandela is widely referred to in South Africa. "We are very happy with the progress that he is now making, following a difficult last few days.
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NEW: Children leave hand- drawn "get well" cards outside Mandela's Johannesburg home
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Relatives visit Nelson Mandela in the hospital, say they appreciate public support
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South African President Jacob Zuma signals optimism about Mandela's condition
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Mandela, 94, went to hospital Saturday with recurring lung infection
... We urge South Africans and the international community to continue to keep President @placeholder and the medical team in their thoughts and prayers."