The long-standing border fence separating Spain and the British territory of Gibraltar has been officially dismantled, signaling the end of restrictive border controls that have historically caused tension for daily commuters. This development follows the formal signing of a historic treaty between Britain and the European Union on Tuesday, which concluded years of post-Brexit negotiations aimed at easing the movement of people and goods.
Gibraltar, a self-governing British territory located on the southern coast of Spain, has maintained a contested status since it was ceded to Britain in 1713. The territory, home to approximately 40,000 people, relies heavily on a workforce of 15,500 individuals who commute daily from Spain. Previously, the land border was a site of frequent frustration, characterized by long queues and rigorous document scrutiny, particularly during periods of political friction between Britain and Spain.
Under the new agreement, the territory effectively joins the EU's Schengen free travel area. Residents of Gibraltar can now enter Spain using their residence cards without the requirement for passport stamps, while Spanish citizens may cross using government-issued identity cards. However, travelers arriving at the Gibraltar airport will still be required to present passports to both Gibraltar and Spanish border officials.
The transition became visible shortly after midnight on Wednesday as crowds began moving freely between the Spanish town of La Linea de Concepcion and Gibraltar. Gibraltar's Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, celebrated the change, stating, "Europe is back." Speaking to the Spanish broadcaster RTVE, Picardo added, "What you feel here is the brotherhood between the two people." The atmosphere at the crossing was further energized by supporters wearing Spanish soccer jerseys, celebrating Spain's recent victory over France in the World Cup semifinal. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is scheduled to visit the border zone later on Wednesday to mark the occasion.
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