A Bermudian delegation has travelled to Dubai to take part in a global conference focused on mail services.

Diallo Rabain, the Minister of the Cabinet Office and Digital Innovation, has been joined by Jeane Nikolai, the ministry’s permanent secretary, and Samuel Brangman, the postmaster-general, at the 28th Universal Postal Congress.

The event, held every four years by the Universal Postal Union, was designed to bring together postal services, regulators and government officials.

In addition to representing Bermuda, the postmaster-general is attending in his capacity as Secretary-General of the Caribbean Postal Union, a role he assumed in 2024.

A government spokesman said: “With traditional letter mail in decline and e-commerce and parcel delivery surging, postal networks worldwide are working to modernise operations, embrace new technologies and meet rising customer expectations for speed, transparency and reliability.

“Bermuda is participating in the Universal Postal Congress to ensure our voice is heard in the critical discussions shaping the future of postal services.

“Our delegation is contributing directly to the sessions most relevant to Bermuda and our people.”

Discussions during the event, which runs from September 8 to 19, are expected to include using technology such as AI to improve efficiency and tracking, managing operational challenges, promoting sustainable practices, international co-operation and exploring solutions to offset the US’s recent suspension of duty-free allowances.

The Bermuda delegation met representatives from the Dubai Government Accelerators Centre.

The spokesman said: “Discussions focused on the success of the recently concluded 100-day accelerator programmes in Bermuda, highlighting the hurdles faced in delivering government initiatives and the innovative solutions developed.

“Both sides agreed to explore additional ways to apply Dubai’s proven methodologies to support the continued digitalisation of Bermuda's government.”

The delegation also briefly met Alex Williams, the deputy director at Britain’s Department for Business and Trade, who holds voting rights at the congress on Bermuda’s behalf.

Mr Rabain said: “Attending this congress ensures Bermuda remains aligned with international standards and best practices.

“The insights and connections gained here are vital to modernising our postal network, strengthening sustainability and ensuring our services remain competitive and relevant in a rapidly digitalising world.”