London, August 29 (ANSA) – The United Kingdom on Monday granted “city” status to Gibraltar, a British border in Spain, formalizing the territory as the country’s municipality.
The recognition came as part of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the throne, and was endorsed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Conservative government.
“It is great to see official recognition given to the City of Gibraltar, a huge compliment to its rich history and energy,” the British Prime Minister said, adding that the official move “reaffirms Gibraltar’s special status in Her Majesty’s realms and rightly represents the pride Gibraltarians feel for their community and heritage”.
This position is testament to the close relationship between Gibraltar and the UK, particularly after 99% of the enclave’s citizens reaffirmed their commitment to British sovereignty in a 2002 referendum, curing a 180-year delay.
In fact, it had been granted city status since 1842 at the initiative of Queen Victoria, but was omitted from the list of recognized municipalities due to a misunderstanding.
However, this year, 39 places have formally applied for city status, with Doncaster, Bangor and Dunfermline having already achieved it.
Now, in addition to Hamilton (Bermuda), Jamestown (St. Helena), Douglas (Isle of Man) and Stanley (Falklands), Gibraltar is one of five recognized territories outside the United Kingdom.
This classification is associated with a cathedral, a university or areas with a large number of residents, although there are no official rules for granting it, and it is granted by the monarch on the advice of the government. (ANSA)
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