The United Kingdom has finalized an agreement with the European Union regarding Gibraltar’s post-Brexit status. Negotiations over border regulations between Spain and Gibraltar have continued since the UK’s departure from the EU in 2020. Under the new deal, checks on individuals and goods moving across the Gibraltar-Spain border will no longer be necessary.
At Gibraltar’s airport, travelers will undergo passport inspections by both Gibraltar and Spanish authorities. This arrangement mirrors the process used for Eurostar passengers at London’s St Pancras station, where UK and French border officials conduct checks before international departures.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the agreement safeguards British sovereignty while boosting Gibraltar’s economy. He described the deal as a “breakthrough” that provides a workable resolution, noting that the previous government’s approach had jeopardized Gibraltar’s economic stability and way of life.
Gibraltar’s Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, praised the agreement, emphasizing his close collaboration with the UK government. He affirmed that the deal meets Gibraltar’s needs without compromising its British sovereignty, ensuring long-term security for its residents.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares and EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic celebrated the agreement as a historic milestone. Sefcovic highlighted that it strengthens the evolving relationship between the EU and the UK. The UK government confirmed that all parties are committed to finalizing the treaty text promptly.
Gibraltar, a 2.6-square-mile British Overseas Territory located on Spain’s southern coast, has been under UK control since 1713, though Spain disputes this claim. The territory’s post-Brexit status and border arrangements have been a persistent challenge.
Around 15,000 people cross the Gibraltar-Spain border daily for employment and tourism. Currently, Gibraltar residents use residence cards for border crossings, while Spanish citizens present national ID cards. However, the impending EU Entry/Exit System raised concerns about potential border delays.
The UK clarified that the treaty includes provisions ensuring Gibraltar’s sovereignty remains unaffected. Additionally, the agreement guarantees full operational independence for UK military facilities in Gibraltar, including the RAF base and the Ministry of Defence-run airport.
Public sentiment in Gibraltar, home to approximately 32,000 people, strongly favors maintaining British sovereignty. In a 2002 referendum, nearly 99% of voters rejected a proposal for shared sovereignty with Spain.
The agreement followed discussions between Lammy, Picardo, and Gibraltar’s cabinet before their meetings with EU and Spanish officials in Brussels.