The British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) agreement between SHG and the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UKG) was due to expire on Wednesday, 15 April 2026. St Helena Government (SHG) confirms that a formal request from UKG seeking to extend the agreement was received close to the expiry date. After careful consideration, Ministers have agreed a one-month extension with the UKG under the existing terms, to provide sufficient time for further engagement and consideration of any future possible agreement.
Ministers wish to be clear that:
• No decision has been taken at this time.
• No new commitments have been entered into, and
• Any future agreement must serve the interests of St Helena.
Ministers recognise that matters relating to BIOT are of significant national interest and that Ministers, Councillors and the public place great importance on transparency and accountability.
While some aspects of the discussions must remain confidential at this stage to protect St Helena’s negotiating position, SHG is committed to providing meaningful updates as discussions progress and to ensuring that any substantive proposal is subject to appropriate consideration before a decision is made.
A further public update will be provided once Ministers are in a position to outline the way forward.
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