German Chancellor Angela Merkel (L) talks with Luxemburg's Prime Minister Jean-Claude Juncker during a special EU summit on Georgia at the EU headquarters in Brussels, Sep, 1, 2008. [Xinhua Photo]

They expressed in the conclusion grave concern about "the open conflict that erupted in Georgia and by the violence that has trained and by the disproportionate reaction of Russia."

The EU "is ready to commit itself, including through a presence on the ground, to support every effort to secure a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict in Georgia."

The leaders agreed to send an observation mission in South Ossetia and make substantial material and financial contributions.

They also decided to immediately dispatch a fact-finding mission with the task of helping gather information and defining the modalities for an increased EU commitment on the ground under the European Security and Defense Policy.

On aid to Georgia, the EU is prepared to provide assistance to reconstruction in Georgia, including in areas of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

It also decided to strengthen its relationship with Georgia, including through facilitation of visas and the possible establishment of a free trade area and complete depth as soon as conditions are met.

The summit said it is more necessary than ever to support the regional cooperation and strengthen its relations with its eastern neighbors, particularly through its neighborhood policy.

The summit decided to appoint an EU special representative for the crisis in Georgia and urges the council to make the necessary arrangements.

"Recent events illustrate the need for Europe to intensify its efforts with regard to the security of energy supplies," the document said.

(Xinhua News Agency September 2, 2008)