U.N.'s Ban Expects EU to Remain Solid Partner despite Brexit

U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said Friday he expects the European Union to remain a solid partner for the United Nations after Britain's decision to leave the bloc.

"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," Ban said in a statement.

Ban also expressed hope that Britain will keep exercising its leadership in many areas including development.

For the transition period that now begins for Britain to leave the EU, Ban said he trusts "Europe's well-proven history of pragmatism and common responsibility in the interest of European citizens."

"At the U.N., we look forward to continuing our work with the United Kingdom and the European Union -- both important partners," Ban said.

"When we work together, we are stronger," he added.