Obama Considers Easing Cuba Travel Restrictions

9 hours ago

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It's still too early to book that Havana holiday, but administration officials say President Obama is considering easing travel restrictions to Cuba.

The move would make it easier for American students, teachers and researchers to visit the island nation but would not affect the trade embargo that's been in place for a half century, The Associated Press reported Tuesday.

The White House has indicated it wants to promote democracy in Cuba by allowing certain Americans to visit there. A complete lifting of travel restrictions would not happen unless the communist regime makes political or economic reforms.

A decision could come by next week, but some officials said an announcement might be delayed until after November's midterm elections.

Last year the administration eased rules to allow Cuban-Americans to visit and send money to family members in Cuba.

Speculation about further revisions to travel restrictions began last month when Havana started releasing a number of political prisoners, the AP said.

The White House and State Department declined to comment on specifics of the changes.

"The president is going to continue to do things that are in the best interest of the United States and that help to create a more democratic environment and expand freedoms for the Cuban people," deputy White House spokesman Bill Burton told reporters.

Filed Under: Obama Administration

Tagged: cuba, cuba trade embargo, dailyguidance, travel ban, travel restriction

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