United States President Barack Obama on Friday said his country respects the decision of the people of the United Kingdom to leave the European Union, reported Associated Press. He added that Washington will continue its special bond with London.

“The United Kingdom and the European Union 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, Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the world", read a statement issued by the White House.

Obama has always been in favour of the UK remaining in the EU. He even visited London in April to convince Britons against voting out of the EU.