LONDON/GIBRALTAR, June 11(AjBell) – The UK and EU have finalized a landmark agreement establishing a “fluid border” for Gibraltar, ending years of post-Brexit uncertainty. The deal ensures passport-free land crossings between the British Overseas Territory and Spain while introducing a unique dual-check system for air travelers.
Under the agreement announced Wednesday:
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Land border crossings will proceed without checks, preserving fluidity for ~15,000 daily commuters.
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Air travelers from the UK will undergo two checks: first by Gibraltar officials, then by Spanish authorities representing the Schengen area.
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Goods/customs checks will be phased out in both directions.
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Gibraltar Airport will adopt a “St Pancras model” (mirroring London’s Eurostar terminal) where both jurisdictions conduct checks pre-departure.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy hailed the “breakthrough” after four years of negotiations, stating: “This protects British sovereignty, supports Gibraltar’s economy, and allows long-term planning. Our commitment remains as solid as The Rock.” The deal averts an EU-mandated hard border that would have caused severe disruptions under new entry systems.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Albares welcomed the “new beginning,” confirming Spain will manage Schengen access points. Gibraltar’s Chief Minister Fabian Picardo emphasized the arrangement “in no way affects British sovereignty,” while EU Commission President von der Leyen affirmed it “safeguards Schengen integrity and regional prosperity.”
Political Context:
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Labour PM Keir Starmer secured the deal within two weeks of taking office, with Spain’s PM Sánchez noting his government “succeeded where others failed.”
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The Conservative opposition pledged to scrutinize the agreement for potential “red line” violations, with shadow minister Priti Patel reiterating: “Gibraltar is British.”
The resolution marks a critical step toward a formal UK-EU treaty, with potential to boost tourism through new flight routes. Gibraltar has rejected shared sovereignty with Spain by 99% margins (2002 referendum) and hosts strategic UK military facilities.
