The Secretary-General has followed discussions surrounding the referendum in the United Kingdom closely. The vote to leave the European Union came at the end of intensive deliberations and rich discussions, not just in the United Kingdom, but across Europe.

Now, as the United Kingdom and other EU Member States embark on the process of charting a way forward, the Secretary-General trusts in Europe's well-proven history of pragmatism and common responsibility in the interest of European citizens.

At the UN, we look forward to continuing our work with the United Kingdom and the European Union – both important partners.

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.

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.