Greek Prime minister Costas Karamanlis expresses disappointment on Monday over French voters' rejection of the European Union constitution in a referendum held throughout France on Sunday.

"The result of the French referendum was a development that troubles us," he said in a written statement.

However, he pointed out that "the verdict of the French people, and every people's, is respected."

"We must not forget, however -- and we do not forget -- the course of European integration has never been smooth," he added.

"From within differences and even crises, the European Union has managed to move ahead, presenting achievements that are unique in history, to the benefit of peace, democracy and prosperity of the peoples," he said.

He called for the constitution's ratification process in the other member states to proceed regularly without postponements.

However, the Communist Party of Greece, in an announcement, praised the French result as "a very positive event."

Source: Xinhua