Minister Cortes attends Remembrance Sunday ceremony in Tangier - 868/2026

Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, and with responsibility for relations with Morocco, the Hon Professor John Cortes MBE MP, represented HM Government of Gibraltar at the annual Remembrance Sunday ceremony held at St Andrew's Church in Tangier on Sunday 8 November.

The service was officiated by the Reverend Dr David Jacks and attended by diplomatic and military representatives, members of the British community and other guests.

Wreaths were laid by Minister Cortes, His Excellency Mr Alex Pinfield OBE, British Ambassador to Morocco; His Excellency Mr Damien Donavan, Australian Ambassador to Morocco; His Excellency Mr Karl Gagné, Canadian Ambassador to Morocco; and representatives of the Royal Navy's HMS Cutlass and the Gibraltar Defence Police.

The solemn church service was followed by the laying of wreaths at the graves of servicemen, including those from Gibraltar, who are buried in the church grounds.

During his visit, Minister Cortes also took the opportunity to engage with members of the British community in Tangier and held discussions with Ambassador Pinfield on Gibraltar-Morocco relations and matters affecting Gibraltar's Moroccan community.

Gibraltar and Morocco enjoy a longstanding and close relationship, built on strong historical, cultural and personal ties. The Moroccan community has played an important role in Gibraltar's social and economic development over many decades, contributing to the close bonds of friendship and mutual respect that continue to unite both communities.

Minister Cortes said: "Remembrance Sunday is an important opportunity to honour those who gave their lives in service and to reflect on the sacrifices made by generations before us. It is particularly moving to do so here in Tangier, where servicemen from Gibraltar are among those laid to rest.

"Gibraltar and Morocco share a very special relationship, rooted in history and strengthened by the close ties between our people. Morocco and its people have been an important part of Gibraltar's story for generations, and we greatly value the friendship and cooperation that exist between us.

"It was a privilege to represent Gibraltar at this ceremony and to have the opportunity to strengthen those links further through my discussions with Ambassador Pinfield and members of the community."