China respects the choice of the British people and expects an early agreement to be reached between the UK and European Union, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Hunying said on Friday, after the UK voted to leave the European Union.

"A prosperous and stable Europe is in the interest of China," Hua said.

She also noted China had consistently considered and developed its relationship with the UK and the EU, for strategic benefit in the long-term.

Regarding British Prime Minister David Cameron's resignation, the spokeswoman said China had always respected the right of other countries to choose their own path of development.

"We respect the choice of British people, and the choice of Cameron," she said.