U.S. eases Cuba travel, trade restrictions ahead of Obama visit

The United States on Tuesday eased its travel, trade and financial restrictions on Cuba, just days ahead of President Barack Obama's historic visit to the former Cold War foe.

The U.S. Treasury Department said the changes will "significantly increase the ability of U.S. citizens to travel to Cuba," including "people-to-people educational travel," and will help Cuban's access to U.S. financial institutions, with expanded trade and commercial opportunities in the United States.

"Today's steps build on the actions of the last 15 months as we continue to break down economic barriers, empower the Cuban people and advance their financial freedoms, and chart a new course in U.S.- Cuba relations," Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew said in a statement.

"Today we are building on this progress by facilitating travel for additional Americans looking to engage with Cubans; allowing Cuban citizens to earn a salary in the United States; and expanding access to the financial system as well as trade and commercial opportunities."

The amendments, which take effect on Wednesday, come following a decision in January by the U.S. to ease restrictions on export financing and facilitating authorized travel to Cuba.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker said the amendments build on President Obama's "historic actions to improve our country's relationship with Cuba and its people."

The United States and Cuba resumed diplomatic relations in July 2015, ending more than five decades of enmity. U.S. President Barack Obama called the move "a historic step in our efforts to normalize relations with the Cuban government and people."

Obama is scheduled to visit Cuba for a two-day visit on March 21 and 22. Endi