Belgrade and Pristina on Friday, February 24 struck a deal on border issues and Kosovo's participation in Balkan regional meetings, in what the European Union called “a major step forward” ahead of a decision on Serbia's recognition as an EU candidate.

“The deal demonstrates a commitment on both sides to their common European future,” EU Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fule said.

As part of the agreement, the European Commission is proposing to launch a feasibility study on placing Kosovo on the path of EU membership also, Fule said in a joint statement with EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton.

The issue is controversial because five of the EU's 27 members do not recognize Kosovo as an independent state, M&C reported, citing DPA.