Cuba lifts decades-old travel restrictions January 14, 2013 - 12:31 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Cuban authorities have lifted decades-old travel restrictions allowing citizens to go abroad without exits visas and spend more time overseas starting Monday, January 14, accoridng to RIA Novosti. The new measures scrap regulations imposed back in 1961 that obliged Cubans to obtain the exit visa and a letter of invitation from someone in their country of destination. The exit visa fees could total around $300, what is 15 times higher than an average salary in the Communist-run island. Now, the Cubans need a one-time application for a passport worth $100, and renewable for $20 every two years. Under the new rules, the Cubans are allowed to stay abroad up to 24 months without losing their residency rights. The limit was 12 months before the rules were enacted on Monday. The eased rules also repealed travel restrictions for Cuban healthcare professionals, who were not eligible to leave the island without a special permit issued by top officials. The Cuban officials have kept their right to deny trips abroad for those citizens involved in defense, national security and “public interest” as well as famous sportsmen. The new rules also forbid people whose work is related to economic development, scientists and people facing criminal charges to leave.   Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads.   Partner news |  Latest news Armenian, Saudi Foreign Minister meet in Riyadh  The two commended the positive dynamics of the development of political dialogue between Armenia and Saudi ArabiaPashinyan: Azerbaijan’s proximity shouldn’t worry border residents At the same time, he said that he “does not guarantee [the security of villagers] one hundred percent”.U.S. doesn’t see Russia as contributing to peace in Caucasus Patel made the remarks when asked about the implications of Russia’s withdrawal of peacekeepers from Karabakh.Up to 1% cashback when shopping on Wildberries with IDBank cards IDBank is launching an exclusive campaign on Wildberries for online shopping enthusiasts. |
