NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg says Britain's position within the alliance "will remain unchanged," despite a vote by Britons to leave the European Union.

Stoltenberg made the remarks on June 24 after officials the results of Britain's so-called "Brexit" referendum were announced.

Stoltenberg said the United Kingdom "will remain a strong and committed NATO ally" as the country "defines the next chapter in its relationship with the EU."

He said NATO "remains committed to closer cooperation with the EU," and that a "strong, united, and determined NATO remains an essential pillar of stability in a turbulent world."

On June 22, a day before Britons voted in the referendum, Stoltenberg had warned that "a fragmented Europe will add to instability and unpredictability."

He said having Britain inside the EU was an advantage for NATO, adding that Britain's role at the heart of Europe was crucial in the fight against international terrorism and Europe's migrant crisis.

Based on reporting by Reuters, AP, AFP, and The Guardian