During a visit to the Campo de Gibraltar region, Albares inaugurated an informative seminar at the local Chamber of Commerce, where he addressed the concerns of businesses and unions regarding the situation of thousands of workers who cross the border daily. The minister emphasized that the agreement, described as “historic,” aims to transform life in the region.
“"The agreement establishes that the rights of cross-border workers are fully guaranteed and includes all necessary provisions regarding Social Security. This ensures the collection of all unemployment benefits without any delay, and for the first time, measures are included that allow complementing Gibraltarian unemployment benefits with Spanish ones."
The treaty also ensures that Gibraltarian pensions can be supplemented to meet Spanish minimums, ending a lack of coordination that caused disadvantages. Furthermore, it guarantees that all European Union citizens legally residing in Spain, along with their family members, will be able to engage in employment activities in Gibraltar without discrimination and under equal employment and working conditions.
One of the key points announced is the physical removal of the Verja (border fence) before July 15, which will allow the free movement of people and goods from day one. Spain will retain full powers to apply European Union regulations at this new external border, with controls carried out by the Spanish National Police.
“"We are changing the way the Campo de Gibraltar is perceived from within and from without."
The minister concluded that the agreement represents “a huge leap forward in terms of predictability, stability, and prosperity for the 300,000 Andalusians of the Campo de Gibraltar,” considering it a collective success for the region, Andalusia, Spain, and Europe.
