Fabián Picardo reveals his political intentions
The Gibraltarian Prime Minister, Fabián Picardo, does not hesitate to express his views on Spain. He recently shared that his entry into the political world was motivated by building a future of prosperity that benefits both Gibraltar and Spain. However, he also showed his disenchantment with the rigid postulates that hinder this goal: ‘Spain represents an opportunity, but at the same time it generates disappointment.’
Statements about Gibraltarians
In an interview with the newspaper ‘La Vanguardia’, collected by an information platform, Picardo referred to the possible disrespect that, according to him, would come from Spain towards Gibraltar. ‘On some occasions this happens’, he declared, at the same time defending himself against the fallacies that come out of the Spanish media about his population. ‘We are not smugglers, nor is Gibraltar a tax haven’, said Picardo, stressing that they have always complied with the transparency regulations that are required at a financial level.’
Negotiations and sovereignty
Regarding the subject of sovereignty and the possible agreements with Spain to regulate the link of the Rock with the European Union after Brexit, Picardo indicated that the talks transcend the simple concept of sovereignty. He expressed concern about the ideologies of the Spanish right, which, according to him, perpetuate a mentality of reconquest over Gibraltar.
The economic importance of Penyal
Picardo commented that the location of Gibraltar, located at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea, entails a ‘great responsibility’ and that, next to Algeciras and Tangier, a powerful logistics zone can be established. ‘There is no other comparable place in Europe and Africa’, he added, convinced that in good faith an agreement can be reached soon.
Fiscal and border aspects
Regarding the tax issue, Picardo defended Gibraltar’s uniqueness: ‘We cannot implement the same tax system as Spain, as this would prevent us from achieving the prosperity we seek.’ When asked about the possibility of removing borders, he recalled the days when he and his family lived in a Gibraltar where physically marked lines did not exist, and where fluidity in interactions fostered mutual understanding.
The historical conflict with Spain
Disagreements between Gibraltar and Spain have deep roots, dating back to 1713, when the Treaty of Utrecht ceded Gibraltar to the United Kingdom. This peninsula, located on the southern coast of Spain, has been a source of controversy for centuries. Spain insists on its claim of sovereignty over Gibraltar, arguing that it should be part of its territory. Gibraltarians, for their part, have consistently expressed through referendums their desire to remain under British jurisdiction.
Impact of Brexit on relations
Relations between Gibraltar, Spain and the United Kingdom have recently been complicated by Brexit, in which Gibraltar overwhelmingly opted to remain within the European Union. This decision has generated new dynamics and challenges in the relations between the parties involved, adding another level to the already complex context of negotiations.