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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Obama signs Asia-Pacific travel bill

Jaymes Song Associated Press

HONOLULU – President Barack Obama has signed a bill making it easier for U.S. business travelers to access Asia-Pacific nations more freely and quickly.

Obama signed the measure just before taking the stage Saturday to address the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation CEO Summit in his native Hawaii.

The APEC Business Travel Card allows pre-screened business travelers easier entry to most of the 21 APEC member economies. The card removes the hassle of individually applying for visas or entry permits for every visit. It also allows multiple short-term entries into participating economies during the three years the card is valid. Cardholders also benefit from faster immigration processing via special APEC fast lanes at major airports.

Meeting delayed

The Friday death of Mexico’s top Cabinet secretary, Francisco Blake Mora, has forced President Obama to postpone plans to host a North American summit with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Mexican President Felipe Calderon. The meeting will take place at a future date.