Icelanders have voted against reopening membership talks with the European Union, dealing a setback to the government's push for closer ties with Brussels.
Official results show 52.8-percent voted against negotiations, while 47.2-percent supported them. Turnout was 82.5-percent.
The country's Prime Minister says Iceland will instead focus on strengthening its existing relationship with the EU through the European Economic Area.
Fishing rights were a major issue in the campaign, with opponents warning EU membership could weaken Iceland's control over its waters.
Supporters argued closer ties could help Iceland deal with trade tensions, Arctic security concerns and high borrowing costs.
The government says the result will end the membership debate for as long as the current coalition remains in power.
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