Gibraltar’s Governor praises Spain’s “courage”

Gibraltar Governor Sir Francis Richards has acknowledged Spain’s “courage” in entering into a new forum of dialogue involving the British Overseas Territory and has also criticised those in Spain seeking to return to past values and times.

In his traditional Christmas message Sir Francis commented on 2004 as an “extraordinary year”.

“This has been an extraordinary year. Everybody in Gibraltar has been a part of the celebrations of our Tercentenary, and I am sure you will all have your own personal favourite memories of it. Of course there were the big public events, and very splendid they were – The Princess Royal memorably successful visit, the Freedom of the City for the Royal Navy, the visit of the four ex-Governors – and the great moment of the hands around The Rock, which captured the imagination of the world. Just as important in their way were the imaginative exhibitions and projects undertaken by schools, institutions and individuals, which have helped a new generation of Gibraltarians to discover and celebrate their past.”

“But what I shall remember most of all is the wonderful spirit of ordinary Gibraltarians as they came together on the streets in that week in August – a spirit of good humour, pride and thanksgiving, a generous spirit without a trace of triumphalism or malice. I believe that the way that Gibraltar marked this milestone in our history has done its people great credit. I believe too that it has not just celebrated the ties that bind Gibraltar and the United Kingdom together, but has made them stronger. My wife and I feel greatly privileged to have been here and to have played our part in this great event.”


MercoPress