Washington has announced new rules to continue to normalize relations between the United States and Cuba. The measures will lifts restrictions on U.S. financing for exports to Cuba and allow the direct shipping of many products. Previously, U.S. exports had to be routed through a third country before reaching Cuba, and the shipments had to be paid for in advance with cash. The new measures, slated to take effect today, also extend rules allowing for increased travel. President Obama says he is looking to travel to Cuba before the end of his term next year.