The European Union says it is easing travel bans against top Burmese officials after the government carried out “remarkable” political reforms.

EU foreign ministers said in a statement Monday the recent release of political prisoners in Burma shows the government is determined to continue reforms. They also welcomed the easing of media restrictions and efforts to make peace with ethnic groups in the country.

The EU said visa bans should be lifted for Burma's president, vice presidents, cabinet members and the speakers of the two houses of parliament.

It said it will continue to examine lifting more sanctions, and that if Burma continues on a path of reform than further easing could come by the end of April.

The EU and the United States have imposed sanctions on Burma for years because of the former military government's human rights abuses.

Last year a nominally civilian government took power, and diplomats including U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and British Foreign Secretary William Hague visited Burma.