Work crews dismantled the border fence separating Gibraltar from Spain on Tuesday, following a treaty agreement between the United Kingdom and Spain. The removal of the physical barrier aims to facilitate easier movement for the estimated 15,000 workers and tourists who transition between the British Overseas Territory and the Spanish mainland daily.
The agreement comes after years of negotiations regarding Gibraltar's status following the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union. Under the new arrangement, Gibraltar will join the Schengen Area, effectively moving the external border of the European Union to Gibraltar's airport and port rather than the land crossing at La Línea de la Concepción.
Authorities from both Spain and Gibraltar stated that the open border is intended to foster economic cooperation in the Campo de Gibraltar region. While the fence has been removed, officials noted that electronic monitoring and joint security presence will remain in place to manage the new entry points at the territory's transit hubs.