On Wednesday, the office of the National Zoo located in Washington, D.C. U.S announced that it was set to receive two new giant pandas by the end of 2024. The news marked a good turn in relations between the U.S. and China, thus defining the sophistication of diplomatic engagement between the two countries. For five decades, giant pandas have been a symbol of “panda diplomacy,” aiding in promoting the preservation of wildlife and diplomacy.
The U.S. first lady, Jill Biden, shared the news online, expressing enthusiasm for children across the country to witness the “adorable and joyful adventures” of the giant pandas once again.
The newcomers, Bao Li (meaning “treasure” and “energetic”) and Qing Bao (meaning “green” and “treasure”), will arrive under a 10-year breeding and research agreement with China. This collaboration, hailed by the zoo as a “historic moment,” underscores the value of the ongoing partnership between the Smithsonian Institution and Beijing. This agreement is significant because it signifies a renewed focus on giant panda conservation efforts. The research conducted through this collaboration will be crucial to understanding giant panda reproduction, health, and dietary needs, all vital for their survival in the wild.
Brandie Smith, director of the National Zoo, emphasized the significance of this exchange. “We’re thrilled to welcome these new bears,” she said, “including a descendant of our beloved panda family,” referring to Bao Li’s lineage. Smith further highlighted the positive impact of the collaboration with China, calling it “proof positive” of their successful efforts.
The return of giant pandas comes after a period of heightened tensions between the US and China. In fact, just last November, the National Zoo saw the departure of its three resident pandas. This was followed by a summit between President Biden and President Xi Jinping, where both leaders discussed the possibility of new pandas arriving as “envoys of friendship.” The idea was raised by China, and was welcomed by the White House.
Giant panda diplomacy has a long history, dating back to 1972, when the first pandas arrived in the US as a gift following President Nixon’s historic visit to China. Strained relations in recent years, however, led to the return of some pandas to China.
The two new pandas, both two years old, hail from the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda. This center is a world leader in giant panda captive breeding and reintroduction programs. Bao Li and Qing Bao coming from this esteemed facility indicate China’s commitment to successful panda propagation and potential future reintroduction efforts back into their natural habitat.
After a quarantine period under the supervision of the National Zoo staff, Bao Li and Qing Bao will have time to adjust to their new surroundings before being introduced to the public on a yet-to-be-determined date.
Expressing their commitment to the safe transport of these treasured animals, FedEx, the official couriers of the Pandas, highlighted their valuable role in this new chapter of the National Zoo’s giant panda program.
