(Telecompaper) Alcatel-Lucent returned to an adjusted operating profit of EUR 33 million in the first quarter, compared to a loss of EUR 179 million a year earlier. The result was helped by cost reductions, with improved profitability at its Core Networking division and reduced losses in the Access division. The net loss narrowed to EUR 73 million from EUR 353 million a year ago, also supported by fewer restructuring charges and lower financial losses. Operating cash flow was still negative, at EUR 59 million versus a negative EUR 279 million a year earlier. Revenues from continuing operations were up 0.3 percent year-on-year at constant exchange rates to EUR 2.963 billion. This excludes the Enterprise division up for sale. CEO Michel Combes said the results provided a good basis to build on in the rest of 2014 and works towards the company's goal of positive free cash flow in 2015.