June 8 (Reuters) - Statoil Asa STL.OL :
* Says has signed a swap agreement with BP BP.L and has been granted regulatory approval to take over two exploration permits and extend its work program in the Great Australian Bight
* Says has transferred its 30% equity interest in offshore exploration permits EPP37 and EPP38 to BP and exited the licences
* Says BP has transferred its 70% equity interest in offshore exploration permit EPP39 and EPP40 to Statoil and exited the licences
* Says Statoil consequently holds 100% equity interest in the two exploration permits
* Says the regulator has granted Statoil a suspension and extension of the work commitments in EPP39 and EPP40
* Says the approved extension includes drilling of one exploration well in EPP39 before Oct. 30, 2019 Source text: https://www.statoil.com/en/news/revised-exploration-program-great-australian-bight.html Further company coverage: STL.OL