More than 110 postal leaders and experts from across Europe gathered in Baku, Azerbaijan, for the 2026 PostEurop General Assembly and Business Forum, hosted by Azerpost. Bringing together operators of different sizes and backgrounds, the event reaffirmed the importance of international cooperation in supporting a sustainable, innovative and resilient postal sector.
This hybrid event provided an opportunity for members to review the association’s progress, agree on key governance and financial decisions, and discuss the major trends shaping the future of the postal sector.
Opening the General Assembly, PostEurop President Elena Fernández-RodrÃguez highlighted the organisation’s ongoing strategic evolution. Building on work undertaken since 2023, she outlined efforts to strengthen alignment between the Board, committees and the PostEurop headquarters, ensuring the association remains focused, agile and responsive to the changing needs of its members. Looking ahead, PostEurop will continue implementing its governance roadmap, with greater emphasis on measurable outcomes, member value and strategic priorities.
Welcoming delegates to Azerbaijan, Manaf Babayev, Chief Executive Officer of Azerpost, reflected on the rapid transformation taking place across the postal industry. He emphasised the growing importance of e-commerce, digitalisation, cross-border logistics and evolving customs requirements, while reaffirming that postal operators play a wider societal role by connecting citizens, businesses and communities and expanding access to financial and digital services. He stressed that international cooperation, knowledge sharing and mutual trust remain essential for navigating future challenges and opportunities.
PostEurop Secretary General Botond Szebeny underlined the association’s core mission of fostering cooperation among European postal operators. He noted that, while the General Assembly addressed important governance and financial matters, the accompanying Business Forum enabled members to exchange views on some of the sector’s most pressing topics, including cross-border trade, customs developments and environmental, social and governance (ESG) challenges. These discussions reflected the growing need for collaboration as postal operators adapt to an increasingly complex operating environment.
The Assembly was also honoured by the participation of Masahiko Metoki, Director General of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), who highlighted the importance of continued regional and international cooperation within the postal sector. His participation reinforced the strong relationship between PostEurop and the wider global postal community as the industry works collectively to address shared challenges and implement the outcomes of the recent UPU Congress cycle.
During the meeting, members approved the 2025 annual accounts and reviewed the association’s solid financial position and outlook. They endorsed a series of governance and organisational measures designed to strengthen strategic delivery and ensure that PostEurop continues to provide value to its members. Members also reviewed progress across key areas of work, including UPU affairs, European Regulatory Affairs, Best Practices Sharing, Wider-Europe cooperation, capacity building and externally funded projects.
Several recurring themes emerged throughout the discussions. Innovation and digital transformation remain high on the agenda, with increasing interest in artificial intelligence, automation and data-driven operations. Members also identified customs developments, e-commerce growth and cross-border logistics as strategic priorities requiring continued cooperation. At the same time, sustainability and social responsibility continue to shape the sector’s transformation, both through ESG initiatives and projects promoting inclusion and workforce development.
A symbolic highlight of the event was the unveiling of a special commemorative postage stamp and cancellation issued by Azerpost to mark the occasion, celebrating the gathering of the European postal community in Baku and its shared commitment to cooperation.
The formal proceedings of the General Assembly were complemented by a special gala evening hosted by Azerpost. Delegates were treated to a showcase of Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional performances and local gastronomy, providing an opportunity for members to strengthen professional relationships and experience the renowned hospitality of the host country.
Through a combination of strategic discussions, knowledge sharing and networking opportunities, the General Assembly reaffirmed PostEurop’s role as a trusted platform for cooperation among postal operators. The discussions held in Baku highlighted a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability and resilience as the sector continues to adapt to a rapidly evolving environment.