The Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, expressed his displeasure with the Vice President of the European Commission Margaritis Schinas, who stated that the negotiations with the UK to regulate Gibraltar’s relations with the EU post-Brexit are taking longer than expected. Schinas mentioned that British negotiators have reservations about the role of Frontex agents in Gibraltar entry controls, as they view the agency as “too European”. He also mentioned that there will be no result before the European elections on June 9th, contradicting the optimism of the Spanish government.
Albares immediately contacted Schinas to complain about his “very unfortunate” statements and stated in an interview with RNE that the Gibraltar negotiations are progressing at a good pace and he hopes they conclude as soon as possible. He revealed that he had called Schinas, who had apologized for his comments, claiming he did not have all the information about the negotiations with London. Albares also spoke with the Executive Vice President of the Commission, Maroš Šefčovič, responsible for negotiating with London, and they released a joint statement affirming that the negotiations on Gibraltar are progressing as planned and entering a sensitive stage.
The negotiations between the European Commission and the UK on Gibraltar began after a 31 December 2020 agreement between Madrid and London to remove the Verja and allow free movement of residents in the British colony in the Schengen area. However, after 18 rounds of negotiations – the last held on 22 March – no agreement has been reached regarding entry controls at the Gibraltar airport and the joint use of this facility, built on an isthmus whose sovereignty Spain does not recognize. The inability to reach an agreement before the European elections would lead to a pause of several months, as a new Commission would need to be appointed and ratified by the new European Parliament.
The negotiations with the UK regarding Gibraltar are being driven by the European Commission, specifically by Vice President Maroš Šefčovič, as stated in a joint statement by Albares and Šefčovič. They clarify that the Commission expresses its position on this matter through Šefčovič and that Schinas’ statements do not represent the Commission’s stance. Despite the challenges in reaching an agreement, both parties are committed to continuing the negotiations to find a resolution that satisfies all sides.
It is clear that tensions exist between Spain and the UK regarding the negotiations on Gibraltar post-Brexit. While the Spanish government remains optimistic about the progress of the talks, statements from Schinas have caused concern and frustration within the Spanish government. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for Gibraltar residents, as well as for Spain and the UK’s relations with the EU. Ultimately, both parties must work towards a mutually beneficial agreement to ensure the smooth transition of Gibraltar’s relations with the EU post-Brexit.
