The interim chief executive of BP has dismissed speculation that the company may become a takeover target for rivals.
The energy giant posted underwhelming results on Tuesday with quarterly profits falling by nearly $5billion from the same period last year.
BP reported profits of $3.3billion (£2.7billion), which also fell below the $4billion (£3.3billion) that was forecast.
Speaking following the results, interim chief executive Murray Auchincloss said he feels "confident" about the future, confirming BP will remain active in the North Sea as long as it is viable to do so.
But speculation has been fuelled surrounding the company's future following major acquisitions from US firms in recent weeks.
Last week, Chevron announced the acquisition of Hess Corporation for $53billion (£43.6billion).
Nearly a fortnight prior, ExxonMobil agreed a near-$60billion (£49.4billion) deal with Pioneer Natural Resources.
"I don't feel vulnerable, in fact, I feel quite confident", Mr Auchincloss said.
"We remain very committed to the UK.
"We have a good concentrated portfolio in the UK west of Shetland and in the North Sea and we continue to develop resources there.
"We’ll be sustaining earnings and production from the North Sea, all the way through 2030.
"We don’t guide beyond 2030 but certainly, we have the resources to grow. The North Sea continues to be an important part of the portfolio."