Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory located on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, has occupied a complex and often sensitive position in Brexit-related negotiations. While it is under British sovereignty, its geographic and economic ties with Spain have necessitated trilateral dialogue since the UK’s departure from the EU.

In 2020, an interim agreement allowed Gibraltar to benefit from elements of the Schengen framework, preserving cross-border movement for its citizens. However, that arrangement has remained temporary, with all parties working toward a permanent solution ever since.

Spain Committed to Deal – But Not Sovereignty Concession

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has emphasized that Madrid remains committed to finalizing an agreement, though he reiterated that Spain would not relinquish its long-standing claim over Gibraltar’s sovereignty.

During recent discussions with UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, Albares reportedly stressed that closer UK-EU ties must also involve a resolution on Gibraltar. In a statement to the BBC, he underlined Spain’s readiness to move forward—but not at the expense of its historical position on the Rock.

“We are committed to an agreement,” Albares said. “But our sovereignty claim remains unchanged.”

This sentiment was echoed in comments to Newsnight, where Albares clarified that despite recent progress, “the issue remains unresolved” and no final deal has been reached yet.

Border Control Changes Could Affect UK Travelers

Depending on the final terms, British travellers entering Gibraltar may soon be subject to passport checks by Spanish or EU border agents, particularly at Gibraltar’s airport. This would represent a major operational shift from current arrangements and could affect both residents and tourists.

Sources cited by The Telegraph said the negotiations—originally initiated in 2017—have gained momentum, with many of the major issues now close to resolution.

Chief Minister Picardo confirmed this sentiment, stating he now sees “the end of talks” on the horizon, although he stopped short of announcing a finalized agreement.

UK and Gibraltar Reassert Sovereignty Stance

In response to Spain’s statements, UK officials have remained firm on Gibraltar’s status. Former UK Foreign Secretary Priti Patel reiterated that “Gibraltar is British,” stressing that the UK government will not compromise on sovereignty.

The 2006 Gibraltar Constitution states that the territory’s sovereignty cannot be transferred without the consent of its people. This position is further supported by the results of a 2002 referendum, in which Gibraltar’s citizens overwhelmingly rejected any proposal for joint sovereignty with Spain.

Next Steps in Gibraltar’s EU Relationship

As negotiations approach a potential conclusion, attention is focused on how Gibraltar will be integrated into the Schengen system without undermining its British identity or the sovereignty concerns of either side.

A final agreement could significantly enhance mobility and economic stability for Gibraltar’s residents and businesses, while also serving as a diplomatic milestone in UK-EU relations post-Brexit.

For now, the eyes of all parties remain on the negotiating table—with the hope that a long-awaited and mutually acceptable resolution is just around the corner.