Postal Services Key to Advancing Shared Progress, Leveraging Modern Technology, Connecting Peoples, Secretary-General Says in Observance Message

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for the opening ceremony of World Post Day, in Berne, Switzerland, today:

It is my pleasure to send greetings to the world postal community as you mark World Post Day.  Posts play an important role in the everyday lives of people and businesses and are making welcome contributions to global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

To cite just one example, the International Letter-Writing Competition for Young People, a long-standing Post Day tradition, encourages literacy among children and young people.  This year’s 1.2 million participants, in considering which global challenge they would want me to tackle first, displayed an encouraging concern for humankind and commitment to international cooperation.

The writing skills demonstrated by these young people give us hope for the future.  Indeed, postal services are looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow — leveraging modern technology and consumer trends to connect people and societies across the world.

High-quality, well-connected, diversified and inclusive postal services will continue to be crucial for solutions to global challenges and shared progress for all.

Please accept my best wishes for a memorable World Post Day and for the success of your work.