Foreign Secretary heads to Brussels for post-Brexit Gibraltar talks
The Foreign Secretary travels to Brussels for discussions on Gibraltar's status following Brexit, aiming to resolve post-Brexit issues.
British Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron is heading to Brussels on Friday for discussions regarding Gibraltar's post-Brexit relationship with the European Union (EU). Joining him are Gibraltar Chief Minister Fabian Picardo, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares, and European Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič.
The primary focus of the talks is likely to be on managing Gibraltar's border, given its strategic location on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, sharing a border with Spain. The UK's decision to exit the EU in 2016 disrupted the previous freedom of movement agreements, posing challenges for Gibraltar, where daily crossings for work, shopping, and family visits are common.
Despite the anticipation surrounding the meeting, it is not anticipated to yield a final agreement. However, Mr. Picardo expressed optimism, hoping that the discussions would pave the way for progress towards a formal treaty. He emphasized the importance of advancing matters while safeguarding Gibraltar's sovereignty, jurisdiction, and control.
Gibraltar, officially a British overseas territory, has been operating under ad hoc arrangements since it was not included in the permanent UK-EU Brexit deal. Over the past year, there have been 17 rounds of talks aimed at reaching a lasting solution to address the territory's unique status.
A recent statement by veteran Conservative MP Sir Bill Cash raised concerns about potential concessions made by the UK, including allowing EU border checks in Gibraltar and joint UK-Spanish management of the territory's airport. However, Foreign Office Minister David Rutley reassured that the UK government would not compromise on sovereignty and emphasized the need for agreements that align with Gibraltar's interests.
Regarding the airport's future, Rutley indicated openness to exploring practical options but stressed the importance of ensuring Gibraltar's contentment with any terms agreed upon. As negotiations continue, all parties involved are navigating complex issues to establish a framework that balances sovereignty with practical considerations for cross-border cooperation and movement.
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