The United Nations will continue to work with both the European Union and the United Kingdom as "important partners," U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said in a statement after the U.K. voted to leave the EU.

    "The Secretary-General expects the European Union to continue to be a solid partner for the United Nations on development and humanitarian issues, as well as peace and security, including migration," said a statement released by the office of Ban's spokesperson.

    "He also expects that the United Kingdom will continue to exercise its leadership in many areas, including international development. He very much hopes that this will continue. "When we work together, we are stronger," the statement added. 

    Britain has decided to leave the EU in a national referendum held Thursday, with 51.9 percent voting to leave the bloc and 48.1 percent voting to remain. In the wake of results, British Prime Minister David Cameron, who advocated a 'remain' vote, has announced he will step down in October.

Source: QNA