The head of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) on Tuesday called on delegates to pursue a path benefiting the entire postal system, after the United States threatened to leave the body. 

"I call on all of you in the name of this historical union to find the courage to choose the right path not just for yourselves, but for the entire industry," said UPU Secretary General Bishar Hussein at the opening of the body's third Extraordinary Congress. 

The UPU is holding the emergency meeting from Tuesday to Thursday on the matter of postal remuneration rates and the compensation paid for inbound international bulky letters and small packets. 

"The United States of America has informed us that if the system is not reformed, they are going to quit the UPU," said Hussein at a press conference of the world's biggest e-trader, driver of the current postal trade. 

If the problem of remuneration is not solved at the congress, Hussein cautioned journalists that "a major disruption is on the way."

During his speech, the UPU chief called on member countries to reach a consensus. 

"I believe we are at a fork in the road -- a crossroads -- where the choices we make can set the course for the rest of the century," said Hussein. 

Around 800 participants from some 100 countries are expected to attend the congress, which can be classified into three major categories based on their stances towards the system. 

The first group, represented by the United States, is dissatisfied with the current situation. The second group agrees that the system should be changed but is happy with the current speed of change. 

The third group is trying to ensure "the integrity of the postal network as a public good," which the UPU said had been the reason for the foundation of the UPU over a century ago.

(Cover: Representatives attend the opening session of an extraordinary congress of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), with the U.S. threatening to quit the global body as early as next month, on September 24, 2019 in Geneva. /VCG Photo)