"As Attorney General, I am both honoured and delighted to ensure this foundational document is safeguarded for future generations," said the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, The Hon. Kim Wilkerson.

Last week, Minister Wilkerson officially transferred the original 1988 US-Bermuda Tax Treaty to the Bermuda Archives. This pivotal document, which underpins Bermuda's success as a premier insurance and reinsurance hub, was brought into force on 2 December 1988.

Discovered earlier this year by Solicitor General Shakira Dill-Francois, the Treaty had remained hidden in a collection of legal documents for decades. Its preservation and public availability mark a significant moment in Bermuda's history.

"The 1988 Treaty cemented Bermuda's place as a global leader in the insurance and reinsurance industries, contributing significantly to our economic stability," Minister Wilkerson explained.

"By transferring it to the Bermuda Archives, we are not only preserving its historical and cultural value but also making it accessible to the public, reinforcing its enduring legacy."

The Treaty's importance lies in its unique provisions that established tax cooperation between Bermuda and the United States, enabling Bermuda-based insurance and reinsurance companies to thrive while maintaining global competitiveness. 

"Under section 13 of the Bermuda Archives Act 1974, I exercised my powers to ensure this document's permanent preservation. This decision reflects our commitment to transparency, historical integrity, and recognition of Bermuda's international contributions," the Attorney General added.

Solicitor General Shakira Dill-Francois recounted the serendipitous moment she stumbled upon the original treaty document. "I recalled hearing about this document during a seminar organised by Richard James of Covenant Concepts Leadership Institute. 

"But a time later, as I reviewed materials in our office, I realised I was holding the original Treaty. It was astonishing to think that such an important document had been in our possession, quietly awaiting rediscovery."

Ms Dill-Francois emphasised its significance: "This Treaty is more than a piece of paper; it symbolises Bermuda's role on the global stage and our enduring partnership with the United States."

The Treaty was negotiated under the leadership of then-Premier Sir John Swan and former Attorney General Saul Froomkin KC. 

The decision to house the Treaty in the Bermuda Archives highlights its dual role as a legal and historical artifact. 

The Bermuda Archives safeguards the records of the Government and private collections of enduring value, providing the public with access to documents that shape the Island's identity. 

The public will now have the opportunity to view the Treaty in its original form.