In the letter, of which Agence France-Presse obtained a copy, the French, Austrian and Italian foreign ministers say they have thoroughly analysed Serbia's progress and reached the conclusion that the requirements have been met.

European leaders in December postponed a decision on Serbia's EU candidate status, demanding progress in relations with Kosovo.

In the letter, the three ministers say Belgrade has made very constructive proposals aimed at including Kosovo in regional cooperation, acknowledging at the same time the position of each side regarding Kosovo's status.

The ministers think great progress has also been made in the implementation of agreements reached with Kosovo on other issues and that the EU should, therefore, keep the promise and give Serbia accession candidate status, saying this would encourage it to pursue overall normalisation of relations with Kosovo.

EU member countries' foreign ministers are expected to discuss this topic on Monday.