Key facts
- China has sent giant pandas to other countries for centuries as a symbol of goodwill.
- Modern panda diplomacy gained prominence in the 1970s.
- Loaned pandas typically cost $1 million per year for conservation fees.
- China recalled its last two pandas from Japan in January.
- Zoo Atlanta welcomed two new pandas, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, on Sunday.
China continues its long-standing tradition of 'panda diplomacy' by sending giant pandas to other countries as symbols of friendship and to strengthen diplomatic ties. Two pandas, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, recently arrived at Zoo Atlanta in the US, marking a continuation of the practice following the end of a previous 25-year partnership between the zoo and China.
This diplomatic strategy, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty, saw a resurgence in the 20th century. Modern panda diplomacy shifted from outright gifts to long-term loans, often with annual conservation fees of up to $1 million. At its peak in 2019, 21 countries hosted pandas, but this number has since dropped to 16.
Recently, Japan returned its last two giant pandas, twins Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, to China. This departure left Japan without any pandas for the first time since 1972, a move that occurred amid tense relations between Tokyo and Beijing, particularly following comments made by Japan's prime minister regarding Taiwan. China's decision to recall the pandas ahead of schedule and halt further loan negotiations was seen as a response to these diplomatic tensions.
The practice of panda diplomacy is deeply significant in China, with the animals considered national treasures. Perceived mistreatment of pandas abroad can lead to significant backlash from nationalist circles within China, as seen in 2023 when speculation arose about the health of pandas at the Memphis Zoo in the US. Despite assurances from Chinese authorities, the pandas' stay was not extended, highlighting China's sensitivity to public opinion regarding its national symbols.