WASHINGTON, May 30 (Xinhuanet) -- The United States said on Monday that it will continue its partner relationship with the European Union however the EU evolves.

    "We welcome a strong integrated Europe that is an effective partner for addressing the main challenges we face together," State Department spokesman Noel Clay said, reacting to the rejection of the European Union constitution by French voters.

    "We have such a partnership now with the European Union and we expect to continue to build on this relationship however the EU evolves," he said.

    France held a key referendum on the European Union (EU) Constitution on Sunday, with 54.87 percent of French having voted against the charter.

    The EU constitution, meant to streamline EU decision-making andgive the bloc a president and foreign minister, needs the backing of all 25 members to take effect in 2006. Enditem