Partido Popular would not abandon the Tripartite Forum in the event of winning the next general elections in Spain, Mayor of La Linea Alejandro Sanchez has declared in an interview with the Chronicle. Sr Sanchez said that what a PP Government would do is to seek La Linea’s inclusion when domestic issues and cross-border relations were up for discussion.

Sr Sanchez said he wanted the Forum to continue its work to consolidate benefits and solve the problems that affect both communities.

 

Sr Sanchez likes coming to Gibraltar as often as he can as a private citizen, and over the festive season was spotted and recognised at Morrison’s doing some Christmas shopping. Sr Sanchez was congratulated by many Gibraltarians and staff members following his appointment as Mayor, and they wished him well in his difficult job. Many Gibraltarians have welcomed the change of attitude toward the Rock from the La Linea Ayuntamiento since the departure of the former Mayor.

The Mayor, who will be meeting Chief Minister Peter Caruana during an official visit later this month, is confident they can strike an understanding that is beneficial for both sides “because we want the same things, and that is to achieve what is best for our citizens.”

He also argues that there is a whole range of issues including cultural, educational and sporting exchanges that can be furthered, “outside of the high-level ‘politics of state’” in a manner that is “closer to the ground.”

Sr Sanchez also believes that both cities could “complement each other perfectly,”

and believes La Linea could provide manpower requirements for Gibraltar and also investment opportunities for Gibraltarian businessmen.

“I want cross-border cooperation in many areas of the economy to the mutual benefit of both our cities,” he declared.

He also reckons that neither the people of Gibraltar or La Linea would forgive politicians who advocated “turning our backs to each other,” while noting that citizens on both sides “have already attained day to day normality in their exchanges.”

Sr Sanchez who has strong personal links with Gibraltar is optimistic about the future of cross-border relations and wants Gibraltarians to see him as a person “of their utmost trust and confidence,” noting that he could “not betray persons who treated me with great affection and respect when I was a child.”

He also stated that the PP was backing his policies in respect of cross-border relations, while recognising that there was no-one in the party who understood the reality of Gibraltar as well as he did.