Germany's foreign ministry says Britain will remain a "close partner and friend" despite the decision to leave the European Union, but "being a close friend is not the same as being part of the family".
The ministry said on Wednesday that EU negotiations with Britain would initially be about exiting the bloc and then, "on this basis the new relationship between Britain and the EU can be discussed".
The ministry said it was "daring" for Britain to decide to leave amid "uncertainty and restlessness" in the world.
It said the primary objective of negotiations with Britain would to be to minimise uncertainties for citizens, the economy and the EU.
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