"Now, as the public prosecutor in charge has signalled that the independent criminal investigation could be completed before the end of this year, our countries have asked the UN Security Council to swiftly establish an international criminal tribunal under Chapter VII of the UN Charter to try those responsible for this crime," the letter reads.
The foreign ministers claimed that the international tribunal would make the investigation more transparent, impartial and accountable.
"It would deliver justice to the families of all victims of MH17. It would ensure broad international support and maximise the potential for international co-operation. Further it would oblige all states to co-operate fully with the International Tribunal and its bodies," the letter points out.
Russia has not supported the establishment of a criminal tribunal, calling it premature and counterproductive, advising that the parties wait for the results of Dutch Safety Board investigation to become available first.
Currently, the Dutch Safety Board is carrying out an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the plane crash. It is due to release a final report on the crash in October.