18/09/2006

UK and Spain 'progress' on Gibraltar deal

Britain and Spain have reached an agreement on a number of issues affecting Gibraltar and its citizens.

The historic deal - the first time that the UK, Spain and Gibraltar have reached an agreement on the Rock - tackles some of the key aspects in Gibraltar, but does not resolve the main issue of sovereignty.

The key outcomes of the deal include an airport agreement that will end Gibraltar's exclusion from EU Aviation measures. A new terminal building will also be constructed. Red and green customs channels will also be introduced, which should improve border flows between Gibraltar and Spain.

An agreement has also been made on telecommunications which will relieve the limitations on dialling to Gibraltar from Spain through Spanish recognition of Gibraltar's international dialling code. Mobile phone roaming in Spain will also be permitted for Gibraltar mobile phones.

A long-running dispute over pension payments to Spanish citizens who lost their livelihoods when the border closed in 1969 has also been settled with a pensions agreement providing them with an equitable settlement.

Commenting on the deal at the Gibraltar Trilateral Forum meeting in Cordoba, Minister for Europe Geoff Hoon said: "The Trilateral agreement is truly historic. For the first time, all three parties have negotiated together and have reached agreement together. This is ground-breaking in itself. And it demonstrates that constructive dialogue and co-operation is possible.

"This agreement delivers real, practical benefits to the people of Gibraltar and the Campo region."

(KMcA/SP)

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