Belarus to allow visa-free entry for 80 countries

Belarus will allow visa-free entry for citizens of 80 countries, including the United States and members of the European Union, for visits of up to five days, according to a presidential decree signed 9 January.

The decree comes as the former Soviet republic is seeking to improve its image in the West.

The relaxed visa rules will apply to visitors who arrive in Belarus by airplane. They will come into force a month after their official publication.