The Government of Gibraltar expressed optimism on Tuesday, stating that an agreement was “closer than ever.” Fabián Picardo emphasized in a parliamentary speech that there would be a “clear border line,” even if there was no physical fence. Spain’s Foreign Minister Albares also highlighted the progress, particularly with regard to the “mobility of people, so that the last fence in Western Europe falls.” Another central goal is the “mobility of goods” to create a “space of prosperity in Campo de Gibraltar.” Topics such as taxes and environmental protection are also an integral part of the discussions.
The recent intensification of negotiations is due to the “restart” of relations between the EU and the United Kingdom, pushed by Labour leader Keir Starmer. This gave new momentum to the talks, after they had repeatedly stalled since the UK’s formal withdrawal from the EU in 2020.
Protection of Spanish Interests and Fight Against Smuggling
Sources from the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs are optimistic and leave open the possibility of an agreement already today, Tuesday. Gibraltar is the last outstanding chapter of the United Kingdom’s withdrawal agreement from the EU. Already in April last year, the parties had agreed on a framework agreement outlining the “basic lines” of the agreement, including the controversial points of the airport, movement of goods, and mobility.
The Secretary of State for the EU, Fernando Sampedro, recently assured Congress that indirect and special taxes have been included in the negotiations to protect Spanish interests, particularly in Campo de Gibraltar. The focus here is on products such as tobacco, alcohol, and fuel, to prevent the common practice of smuggling.
Gibraltar Removed from Money Laundering Risk List
Another positive step underpinning the negotiations: The European Commission on Tuesday removed Gibraltar from its list of high-risk countries for money laundering and terrorist financing. This step underscores Gibraltar’s efforts to adapt its regulations and strengthen international cooperation. Removal from this list means relief for financial institutions, as they no longer have to exercise increased vigilance in transactions with companies based in Gibraltar.
