The European Union has said it is lifting its financial sanctions against Burundi

It cited a peaceful political environment and progress by the Burundian government in several areas, including human rights and the voluntary return of refugees into the country.

It however noted that persistent challenges remained "in the areas of human rights, good governance, reconciliation and the rule of law".

The lifting of sanctions by the EU follows a similar decision by the United States last year.

The sanctions were imposed in 2016 after the late President Pierre Nkurunziza's decision to pursue a third term in office, which triggered deadly street protests.

President Évariste Ndayishimiye welcomed the decision and said the country was ready to cooperate with all partners.