Global reactions on UK's exit from EU

Following UK's exit from the European Union, there has been  reactions from various world leaders. 

Most world leaders see the exit as a blow to EU integration.  

Germany's Foreign office tweeted a quotation from Foreign Minister, Frank-Walter Steinmeier which said  "the news from Britain is really sobering",  It looks like a sad day for Europe and Britain.  

The Irish government said the results clearly have a significant implication for Ireland as well as for Britain and the European Union.  

French President Francois Hollande indicated that the British vote seriously puts Europe to the test.  

He however said he respects the painful choice. 

Mr. Hollande said France will continue to work with the  UK.  

President of Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko said it's a pity, but they would rather mind their business. 

The Swedish Prime Minister, Stefan Lofven said the debate and campaigning in the run-up to the referendum should serve as a wake-up call for Europe, adding that  EU cooperation must be developed and improved.  

Austrian Foreign Minister, Sebastein Kurz, thinks a domino effect on other countries cannot  be ruled out.  

He was optimistic that the EU would survive. The Spanish Prime Minister, Mariano Rajoy, pledged his country's commitment to the EU.  

He said the EU is the area of great prosperity and well being , adding that it will continue to build a better future with the EU.  

The Secretary General of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, said the UK will remain a strong and committed NATO ally and will continue to play its leading role in the alliance. 

Sources from the Kremlin said the outcome of the Referendum in the UK on the EU, is purely a EU matter. The source assured Russians of measures to cushion them against any likely effects. 

Russia expressed fear that the exit of the UK from the EU will be a boost for consumption and money laundering. 

It hoped a more assertive UK will not be a haven for corrupt Russian oligarchs to hide their loot.


BBC