LONDON: British Prime Minister Theresa May discussed Brexit with French president-elect Emmanuel Macron following his election victory on Sunday, her Downing Street office said.
“This evening the Prime Minister spoke to President-elect Macron to warmly congratulate him on his election victory,” a spokesman said, after centrist Macron triumphed over his far-right rival Marine Le Pen.
“The leaders briefly discussed Brexit and the Prime Minister reiterated that the UK wants a strong partnership with a secure and prosperous EU once we leave,” the spokesman added.
Downing Street praised “the UK and France’s unique partnership providing a strong foundation for future co-operation”, ahead of Britain starting talks to end its membership of the European Union.
Macron won the presidential election on a pro-EU platform and arrived at his victory speech in the courtyard of Paris’ Louvre museum as the bloc’s anthem “Ode to Joy” played out.
Britain’s future relationship with the EU since last year’s shock Brexit referendum remains at the heart of political debate in the UK, ahead of the country’s general election on June 8.
Macron’s win across the Channel prompted British politicians to briefly pause their campaigning to laud France’s president-elect.
“Huge congratulations to @Emmanuel Macron on an amazing victory. We look forward to continuing the great partnership between our two nations,” wrote Foreign Minister Boris Johnson, who played a key role in the Brexit campaign. (APP)