Spain and EU Propose Free Movement Zone with Gibraltar, Ending Border Controls

Spain and the European Commission have informed the United Kingdom of a proposal to create a free movement area for people and goods with Gibraltar and have already transmitted a plan to it. This would result in the "removal of the Grid" separating this British enclave from Spain.

This plan "requires that Spain assume control, on behalf of the Schengen Area, of the external borders of Gibraltar and, for this, that it can exercise certain necessary functions and powers to protect the integrity and security of the Schengen Area," declares the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement. In addition to the "removal of the Grid", this proposal also aims to "guarantee the full fluidity of the transit of persons" and goods, within the framework of the creation of a new "area of shared prosperity", continues the ministry.

Morocco and Spain can draw inspiration from this proposal to take a similar action for the benefit of the populations crossing Sebta and Melilla, as well as for the transport of goods.