Special relationship between US, Britain 'enduring': Obama

The special relationship between the United States and Britain is "enduring", US President Barack Obama said on Friday after Britain voted to leave the European Union in a referendum.

"So too is our relationship with the European Union, which has done so much to promote stability, stimulate economic growth, and foster the spread of democratic values and ideals across the continent and beyond," Xinhua news agency quoted him as saying in a statement.

The British "Leave" camp has won the historic referendum held on Thursday by obtaining nearly 52 per cent of ballots, pulling the country out of the bloc after 43 years of membership.

"The people of Britain have spoken, and we respect their decision," Obama said.

Britain's membership in NATO remains a vital cornerstone of US foreign, security and economic policy, he said.

Britain and the EU will remain "indispensable partners" of the United States even as they begin negotiating their ongoing relationship to ensure continued stability, security, and prosperity for Europe, Britain and the world, Obama added.

--IANS

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