Spain 'not changing a comma' on sovereignty claim after Gibraltar deal

Spain has affirmed that its claim to sovereignty over Gibraltar remains unchanged following the finalization of an agreement between the European Union and the United Kingdom regarding the enclave's post-Brexit status.

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The article 2 (of the agreement) very clearly leaves it that Spain does not change a comma in its claim of sovereignty, that we continue to claim sovereignty and that our position remains the same (...). We protect that claim and, above all, we take a spectacular leap forward in cooperation and coexistence.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated that the agreement "very clearly leaves it that Spain does not change a comma in its claim of sovereignty." He emphasized that Spain continues to assert its claim, maintaining its position while simultaneously moving towards enhanced cooperation and coexistence. The deal, signed in Brussels, is seen by Spain as a significant step forward.

The agreement is expected to dismantle the border fence separating Gibraltar from Spanish territory, thereby facilitating the free movement of people and goods. Albares highlighted that the pact aims to prevent past distortions in taxation and environmental practices, fostering new connectivity within the Campo de Gibraltar region. He described the outcome as the end of three centuries marked by mistrust and confrontation, heralding a future of opportunities for both Gibraltar and the surrounding Spanish region.

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We leave behind three centuries marked by mistrust and confrontation. Those who lived back-to-back, as Gibraltar and the Campo de Gibraltar were, move forward together towards a future full of opportunities.

Albares asserted that Spain has achieved all its negotiating objectives, with its sovereignty claim being explicitly protected under the terms of the agreement. He addressed criticism from opposition parties, arguing that the deal benefits the 300,000 residents of the Campo de Gibraltar and that cooperation ultimately serves Spain's interests. The minister characterized the agreement as a "spectacular leap forward" in cooperation and coexistence.

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This is an agreement in favor of the 300,000 Andalusians of the Campo de Gibraltar, their interests and their future. In the end, cooperating and investing in coexistence (...) can only benefit Spain.