Rep. Meeks Statement on United Kingdom’s Decision to Exit the European Union

New York, NY—Congressman Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member on the Subcommittee for Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats issued the following statement regarding the United Kingdom’s decision to exit the European Union:

"The people of the United Kingdom have expressed their will with the vote to leave the European Union. I respect the democratic process and the outcome, but I am disappointed. It is an expression of democracy with European and global consequences.

“This vote positions the UK in untested waters. In this interconnected world as our cultural partner within the EU has decided to go on its own, the global community is also now in untested waters. There will be difficulties ahead as the U.K. establishes its new relationships with the EU. What will remain certain and strong is the U.S. commitment to UK security, prosperity, and our role as a NATO allies.

“Over 17 million British citizens voted to leave the EU and in is so doing they demonstrated deep concern about their future in the face of challenges like the migration crisis, economic uncertainty, and geopolitical dynamics. That vote echoes similar sentiments of concern that leaders in the US, UK, and EU must address collectively. We must do so without severing the ties that bind us and ensuring that we uphold the values that have and will continue to strengthen and advance us.”