US loosens regulations ahead of Obama's Cuba visit to island
Changes will allow Cubans to open US bank accounts and authorise those living in the US to earn salary or compensation
US President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro meet at the United Nations General Assembly in New York September 29, 2015. PHOTO: REUTERS
WASHINGTON:
The United States on Tuesday eased some of its Cuba restrictions before President Barack Obama's visit to the former Cold War enemy next week, allowing Cuba and its people greater access to US financial institutions and relaxing travel limits.
The trade and travel changes will allow Cubans to open US bank accounts and authorise those living in the Unites States to earn a salary or compensation, the US government said.
No Obama meeting with Fidel Castro, dissident talks on track: White House
Amendments to US regulations will also allow individuals to visit Communist-ruled country for "people-to-people educational travel," the US Treasury and Commerce Departments said in a statement.
The easement comes as Obama prepares to travel to Cuba March 21-22 amid moves toward normal relations with the island nation just 90 miles (145 km) from Florida's coast.
The United States on Tuesday eased some of its Cuba restrictions before President Barack Obama's visit to the former Cold War enemy next week, allowing Cuba and its people greater access to US financial institutions and relaxing travel limits.
The trade and travel changes will allow Cubans to open US bank accounts and authorise those living in the Unites States to earn a salary or compensation, the US government said.
No Obama meeting with Fidel Castro, dissident talks on track: White House
Amendments to US regulations will also allow individuals to visit Communist-ruled country for "people-to-people educational travel," the US Treasury and Commerce Departments said in a statement.
The easement comes as Obama prepares to travel to Cuba March 21-22 amid moves toward normal relations with the island nation just 90 miles (145 km) from Florida's coast.