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Imedia TV channel report of Russia's attack on Georgia provoked concerns not only in Russia, but also Europe. Brussels, March 18 (Interfax) - European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso has expressed his concern to Georgian Prime Minister Nikoloz Gilauri about the recent faked report of Imedia TV channel of Russia's attack on Georgia.

After meeting the Georgian official in Brussels he told the press that the sides to the conflict should refrain from actions and statements that could aggravate tension.

In turn Gilauri said that it was "not very good" of Imedi to air such a report. He said Georgia has an independent commission for telecommunications that is now looking into the story.

Barroso confirmed the belief of the EU that Russia must fully stand by the provisions of the August 12, 2008 and September 8, 2008 peace accords and allow international observers to South Ossetia and Abkhazia. He stressed the importance of the continuation of the consultations in Geneva.

He said the European Union continues to support Georgia in its democratic reforms and expects Georgia to continue these reforms.

He expressed hope for the speedy beginning of talks with Georgia that would result in an agreement of association and the formation of a free trade zone between the EU and Georgia.