Memorandum of Understanding with the Universal Postal Union

On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, the Director General of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), Mr. Masahiko Metoki, and the Secretary General of the Intergovernmental Organisation for International Carriage by Rail (OTIF), Mr. Wolfgang Küpper, signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Berne. This agreement marks a continuation of their collaborative efforts following the expiration of their initial MoU, signed in 2018, which concluded at the end of 2023.

The new 2024 MoU, while not introducing substantial changes, aims to enhance and solidify the terms of cooperation between the two organizations. A key objective of this partnership is to develop and facilitate the transportation of international postal items by rail, an initiative expected to improve efficiency and reliability in global postal services.

Beyond the exchange of knowledge and expertise, the MoU also provisions for the establishment of joint working groups when necessary. These groups will focus on specific areas of cooperation, ensuring that both organizations can effectively address emerging challenges and opportunities in the realm of international postal transport.

The OTIF Secretariat has expressed its enthusiasm for the renewed agreement with the UPU. It looks forward to continuing this productive cooperation, anticipating significant advancements in the seamless integration of rail transport into the international postal system.