19 September 2025
Mr Tariq Al Wahedi, the Chair of the 28th UPU Congress, representing the United Arab Emirates,Distinguished Ambassadors and Heads of Delegation,
Esteemed Delegates, Colleagues and Observers,
As we approach the end of this historic Congress, I invite you to reflect on the journey we have undertaken together over the past two weeks.
We arrived in Dubai with the shared purpose of shaping the future of the UPU and our sector.
Today, we leave with renewed determination and a clear path forward.
This Congress has been more than a gathering. It has been a moment of transformation, during which we faced challenges head-on, redefined our role in a rapidly changing world, and reaffirmed the values that unite us.
I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to the Government of the United Arab Emirates for generously hosting this important assembly of postal decision makers.
Under the leadership of Mr Al Wahedi, the UAE team has shown exceptional commitment and hospitality, providing us with a venue that has truly elevated the spirit and ambition of this Congress.
Let us take a moment to show our gratitude to the UAE with a well-deserved round of applause.
I would also like to thank and congratulate the chairs of the committees for their leadership, patience, and sense of diplomacy.
Let’s give a big round of applause to all our chairs.
Finally, I wish to express my deepest gratitude to my colleagues at the International Secretariat.
Whether on the podium or behind the scenes, they have spared no effort to ensure that you, the member countries, were in the best possible conditions to fulfil your mission.
They truly deserve a big round of applause.
Excellencies, Dear Delegates and friends,
The discussions we have held, the decisions we have made, and the connections we have built are all testament to what is possible when we embrace opportunity.
We have shown that the postal sector remains a vital force in driving progress, inclusion and global development.
Thank you for your dedication, your insight, and your unwavering belief in the power of the postal network.
We have made this Congress a true Congress of opportunities.
Wishing you safe travels, I look forward to our next meeting in Berne.