Russia eases US import restrictions as Obama's visit nears

Russia lifted a ban on swine and pork imports from four US states on Friday, as US President Barack Obama prepares to visit Moscow.

The decision affects imports from Illinois, Pennsylvania, Texas and New Jersey "because the animal disease linked to (the swine flu virus) has stabilised," said sanitary and veterinary authority Rosselkhoznadzor, quoted by Itar-Tass news agency.

The ban had been imposed on June 3 because of the spread of the virus that causes the H1N1 flu, said Mr Rosselkhoznadzor, without elaborating.

According to the latest toll by the World Health Organization, the A (H1N1) virus has infected 89,921 people in 125 countries and territories and killed 382.

The US president is due to visit Moscow Monday through Wednesday in a bid to 'reset' relations with Russia, which were badly strained under the administration of his predecessor, George W. Bush, AFP reports.