Spanish PM says EU should be reformed to focus on economy after Brexit vote

"Now that we are finally coming out of the economic crisis, we must shift the European Union's focus towards the necessities of its people, putting the emphasis on growth and unemployment," Rajoy told a news conference.

"This result must make all (EU) member states reflect on how to strengthen ourselves more than ever to win back the vigor of the original spirit behind the European project and recover the interest, sympathy and attraction our citizens feel towards it," he said.

Rajoy also said whatever was the result of Sunday's Spanish national election, the country would remain committed to the European project.