EU, UK, and Spain to Engage in Further Discussions Regarding the Post-Brexit Status of Gibraltar
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Roshan Amiri
- . April 12, 2024
- . Update: April 13, 2024 11:25 am
British and Spanish foreign ministers are scheduled to convene in Brussels for another round of negotiations with European Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic regarding the status of Gibraltar after Britain’s departure from the European Union. The presence of key stakeholders, including Gibraltar Chief Minister Fabian Picardo, underscores the significance of the discussions.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares expressed optimism about an agreement, highlighting that while the meeting with his British counterpart David Cameron may not be the final day, progress is being made. Albares acknowledged the complexity of the technical issues involved and emphasized the need to draft comprehensive documents. However, he affirmed that they are close to reaching an agreement on the general political lines.
All parties involved share a sense of urgency to reach a resolution before the European elections in June. Since Britain’s exit from the EU in 2020, the status of Gibraltar and its relationship with the bloc have remained unresolved. Despite 18 rounds of negotiations, progress on a deal ensuring the smooth flow of people and goods across the Gibraltar-Spain border has been slow. Nevertheless, recent statements from UK officials indicate growing optimism about the prospect of reaching an agreement.
During the 2016 Brexit referendum, 96 percent of voters in Gibraltar expressed their desire to remain in the EU. As a territory heavily reliant on access to the EU market, the outcome of the negotiations holds significant implications for Gibraltar’s 34,000 inhabitants.
The sovereignty dispute over Gibraltar dates back to its cession to Britain in 1713, with Spain consistently asserting its claim since then. Over the centuries, relations concerning the Rock, as it is commonly referred to, have experienced fluctuations.
One major point of contention revolves around the control of Gibraltar’s airport, which, under the proposed free-movement agreement, would serve as an external border of the EU. The UK and Gibraltar have resisted Spain’s insistence on stationing Spanish border officials at the airport, which is also home to a Royal Air Force base.
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The British Foreign Office stated that while a final agreement is not expected during the upcoming meeting, the gathering of senior political figures from the UK, European Commission, Spain, and Gibraltar holds significant importance. It reflects the collective commitment to finding a resolution and highlights the willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.
As the negotiations continue, all parties involved remain dedicated to finding a mutually agreeable solution that respects the interests and aspirations of Gibraltar, the EU, the UK, and Spain. The outcome of these talks will shape the future relationship between Gibraltar and the EU, defining the parameters of cooperation and ensuring the continued flow of people and goods across the Gibraltar-Spain border.
