Esteemed Chair, as this marks the first formal address from the United Kingdom to the Committee in this session, I wish to begin by expressing my delegation’s heartfelt congratulations to you and the Bureau members on your recent election.
We are eager to engage in fruitful collaboration with you throughout the duration of this session.
Partnership with Overseas Territories
The United Kingdom maintains a contemporary relationship with all its Overseas Territories, grounded in partnership, shared values, and the right of the inhabitants of each Territory to determine their allegiance to the British Crown or otherwise.
These Overseas Territories enjoy a degree of self-governance, with the UK retaining certain powers solely to fulfil its obligations under international law.
We foster a close bilateral relationship with each Territory, convening an annual Joint Ministerial Council with the Governments of the United Kingdom and the Overseas Territories to monitor and advance our collective priorities. This collaboration is approached with due regard for the unique characteristics and diversity of each Territory.
Our commitment extends to supporting the Territories in their specific priorities, such as environmental conservation, whilst fulfilling our constitutional responsibilities, including ensuring security. Indeed, we regard these Territories as integral components of the UK homeland concerning our defence and security obligations.
Across these Territories, we provide both financial resources and practical assistance to enhance local capacity and resilience where necessary. For instance, our nearly £100 million reconstruction programme following Hurricane Irma’s impact on Anguilla has now been completed. Furthermore, we have initiated new projects in other Territories, such as the operational port in Saint Helena, a hospital nearing completion in Montserrat, and new coastal radar systems now functioning in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Focus on Gibraltar
Turning to Gibraltar, the United Kingdom firmly upholds the right of its people to self-determination, in line with the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter. The Gibraltar Constitution of 2006, ratified by a referendum of the Gibraltar populace, facilitates a modern and mature partnership between Gibraltar and the United Kingdom.
It is, therefore, fitting that the Committee has heard directly from Gibraltar’s Chief Minister, the elected representative of its citizens. We wholeheartedly welcome the Government of Gibraltar’s active participation.
The United Kingdom reiterates its enduring commitment to the people of Gibraltar. We shall not enter into any arrangements that would see Gibraltar fall under the sovereignty of another state against the clear and democratic wishes of its people. Furthermore, we will never engage in sovereignty negotiations that Gibraltar does not endorse.
We also acknowledge the Agreement concerning Gibraltar, signed in Brussels on 14 July 2026, between the European Union and the United Kingdom. This Agreement, developed in collaboration with the Government of Gibraltar, does not prejudice the legal positions of the United Kingdom and Spain regarding sovereignty and jurisdiction, reaffirming that these positions remain unchanged.
Moreover, it signals a new chapter of cooperation, trust, and respect among the United Kingdom, the European Union, Spain, and Gibraltar. We encourage all parties to build upon this positive momentum to further reinforce cooperation and cultivate a mutually beneficial relationship founded on solidarity, dialogue, and shared prosperity.
The Falkland Islands’ Self-Determination
Regarding the Falkland Islands, the United Kingdom is unequivocal in its assertion of sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the South Sandwich Islands, including their surrounding maritime regions. We are equally resolute in affirming the right of the Falkland Islanders to self-determination.
This right is enshrined in the UN Charter and the first article of both UN covenants on human rights, bestowing the Falkland Islanders the freedom to determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development.
In the 2013 referendum, conducted in accordance with international standards and observed by independent international monitors, an overwhelming 99.8 per cent of voters expressed their desire to maintain their status as a British Overseas Territory.
Argentina’s recent decision to pursue arbitration against the United Kingdom under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) represents yet another attempt to undermine the rights and livelihoods of the Falkland Islanders. The people of the Falkland Islands have unequivocally chosen their future, and they possess every right to develop and manage their natural resources free from intimidation or interference.
The regulation of hydrocarbon activities on the Falkland Islands continental shelf is governed by Falkland Islands law and adheres strictly to international law, including UNCLOS. The United Kingdom will steadfastly stand alongside the Falkland Islands Government and its people, robustly defending their wishes, economy, and their right to self-determination.
Commitment to the British Virgin Islands
Turning to the British Virgin Islands, the Committee has already heard from the Premier, and I wish to clarify that the United Kingdom’s long-standing position remains unchanged. Should the British Virgin Islanders express a clear and constitutional desire to pursue independence, the United Kingdom Government will fulfil its obligations to assist the Territory in achieving that goal.
As long as the British Virgin Islands remains an Overseas Territory, the United Kingdom is dedicated to partnering with the BVI Government to serve the interests of all its citizens. We have been engaging in constructive discussions on constitutional reform and will keep the Committee apprised of the results of these talks.
Conclusion and Ongoing Commitment
In conclusion, the United Kingdom reaffirms its commitment to respecting and defending the right of the inhabitants of each Territory to determine their own future in accordance with the UN Charter. Furthermore, I would like to reassure you that the United Kingdom will continue to fulfil our responsibilities as part of our modern partnership with each of the Territories.