Fabian Picardo, the Chief Minister of Gibraltar, has expressed his motivation for entering politics as a way of cultivating shared prosperity with Spain. However, he deplored the dogmatism that prevents this cooperation, saying: “Spain is an opportunity, but also a disappointment.”

In a recent interview with ‘La Vanguardia’, reported by Europa Press, Picardo was asked if he felt that Gibraltar is often disrespected by Spain. He admitted that “sometimes yes”, and stressed that many misconceptions about Gibraltarians are incorrect. He stated firmly: “We are not smugglers, nor is Gibraltar a tax haven”, and stressed that they adhere to financial transparency obligations.

When asked about sovereignty issues that could stand in the way of a possible agreement with Spain on Gibraltar’s relationship with the EU after Brexit, Picardo indicated that negotiations go beyond the concept of sovereignty. He noted that he is disappointed with the Spanish right and far-right, who he believes maintain a “conquest spirit” regarding Gibraltar.

Picardo stressed the importance of Gibraltar’s location at the entrance to the Mediterranean, which carries with it “great responsibility” similar to that of Algeciras and Tangiers. He said that together they could develop a substantial logistics zone, claiming: “There is no other place like it in Europe and Africa.” He remains hopeful that an agreement can be reached quickly if the parties enter into discussions in good faith.

On tax matters, Picardo defended Gibraltar’s unique tax status. He explained that Gibraltar cannot operate under the same tax regime as Spain, as that would hinder their goal of shared prosperity. When asked about the possibility of eliminating the border, he shared his desire to leave a legacy for his children that reflects the Gibraltar of his father and grandfather’s time – a period when the border was negligible, which fostered fluid contact and understanding.

For more insight into Gibraltar’s political climate and economic implications, visit BBC News or The Guardian.

Image and news source: https://www.infobae.com/espana/agencias/2024/07/22/el-ministro-principal-de-gibraltar-espana-es-una-oportunidad-pero-tambien-una-decepcion/