The Universal Postal Union (UPU), established in 1874, was designed to facilitate international postal services and promote cooperation among member countries. By joining the UPU, China aimed to modernize its postal services, which were in dire need of reform during the early 20th century. Before this membership, China's postal system was fragmented and suffered from various inefficiencies, leading to delays and poor communication with the outside world. The decision to join the UPU on March 1, 1914, was part of a larger national strategy to incorporate modern practices and improve trade relations globally. Key motivations included enhancing international diplomacy, facilitating commerce, and advancing technological improvements in communication. The integration allowed China to align with globally accepted postal regulations, thus streamlining the processing and delivery of international mail. This was particularly important given China's growing participation in global trade and international affairs during this era. Additionally, the UPU membership also reflected China's broader efforts toward modernization and reform, as the country sought to establish itself more firmly on the world stage. This initiative was largely met with approval from domestic reformers who recognized the importance of improved communication channels in a rapidly changing world. Over the years, China's membership in the UPU enabled the country to build better postal infrastructure and services, bolstering its economic development and international relations.