News In Brief

US has lifted its ban on Mozambican aid

A ban by the US Congress on development aid for Marxist-ruled Mozambique has been lifted amid warming relations between the two countries, a US Embassy spokesman said Tuesday.

The spokesman, Howard Leeb, said the embargo had been rescinded ''quietly'' two months ago despite strenuous opposition in Congress. He gave no explanation for the delay in announcing the move, which came after Mozambique signed a nonaggression pact with neighboring South Africa. Mr. Leeb said initial aid would total about $500,000.