REUTERS
The U.S. Department of the Treasury has decided to temporarily ease some sanctions against Belarus, according to Voice of America.
The restrictive measures against the Belarusian regime were imposed based on Executive Order 13405 of June 16, 2006 in connection with the persecution of the democratic opposition, according to a report.
The list of companies that have been temporarily released from the sanctions includes: Belneftekhim Concern GP, JSC Belshina, JSC Polotsk-Steklovolokno, Belarusian Oil Trade House, OJSC Naftan (Novopolotsk), JSC Lakokraska (Lida), Production and Technological Complex Khimvolokno (Grodno) Joint Stock Company Grodno Azot and Belneftekhim USA Inc.
Read alsoEU suspends anti-Belarussian sanctions for four monthsThe list does not include Nord European Bank (former Onerbank), Belvneshpromservice and Trade Capital Bank. In addition, personal sanctions have been maintained in relation to 16 individuals - current and former high-ranking Belarusian officials, including President Alexander Lukashenko and his oldest son, Viktor.
In Washington, State Department spokesman John Kirby said the United States was taking the step "in light of the positive move by the Belarusian government to release all six of its political prisoners on August 22," according to Reuters.
He said the step "opens the door to expanded commercial ties" and he encouraged the government to do more "to improve its record with respect to human rights and democracy."
The decision of the U.S. Department of the Treasury to suspend some sanctions takes effect on October 30, and will be effective until April 30, 2016, after which it may be extended or revoked.