Spain, the United Kingdom, and Gibraltar: fresh talks restart amid a delicate Brexit-era stalemate
Following a first phone conversation on Monday, Spanish foreign minister José Manuel Albares described a constructive exchange with his newly appointed British counterpart, David Cameron. The two officials, notable for their previous roles in shaping Brexit-era policy, used their NATO meeting in Brussels to revisit bilateral concerns that still linger after Britain’s departure from the European Union. The discussions touched on Ukraine, regional security in southern Europe, and the broader challenge posed by China, but a large portion of the conversation centered on Gibraltar and the future framework that will govern its status once the UK exits the EU. Albares stressed that the agreement between the European Union and the United Kingdom is “very close,” while noting that no precise date has been fixed and urging that the process not be delayed. European elections were cited as a potential milestone in the timeline. [Citation: European Union negotiations briefing]
In remarks after a NATO engagement where Cameron met with the Spanish minister, Albares highlighted the mood of the talks as cooperative and devoid of tension. Cameron had requested the call and expressed willingness to engage on the issues at hand. The discussion, taking place with Alejandro Maros Sefkovic in the mix, focused on elements that differentiate a final agreement, including a proposed formula for shared use of Gibraltar’s airport and other components that are reserved for negotiation in order to preserve diplomatic discretion. The question of border controls remained unsettled, and Albares promised to travel to address any remaining points once decisions are made. The impression was that both sides were prepared to let teams advance discussions with a clear aim toward resolution. [Citation: NATO briefing notes]
Upon arriving at the Atlantic Council or NATO’s headquarters, Albares stressed that the impetus for progress rests with the United Kingdom. London is called to decide whether to pursue a negotiated deal or rely on the application of European Union law. While the latest talks did not conclude a settlement, they were framed as a deliberate restart after a period described as “paralysis” by observers. Albares asserted that the most sensitive elements have already been addressed, and the remaining tasks involve refining and validating practical arrangements that will form the backbone of any final pact. [Citation: Brussels diplomatic briefing]
Despite a cautiously optimistic tone, Albares did not commit to a firm timeline. He acknowledged political calendars in both Madrid and London and noted that negotiators on both sides have been instructed to press forward without unnecessary delays. The expectation is to conclude negotiations before the next election cycle intensifies. With European elections scheduled for early June 2024, the parties aim to finalize the agreement with the European Commission in advance of that political milestone, ensuring a clean transition into the new mandate while keeping Gibraltar’s future status central to the talks. [Citation: European electoral timeline]