More Pandas May Be Coming To The U.S.

Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the possibility of a gift of new pandas to the United States, emphasizing their role as "envoys of friendship between the Chinese and American peoples." During a dinner speech with business leaders, Xi expressed China's readiness to continue cooperating with the U.S. on panda conservation to deepen ties between the nations. The gesture followed President Xi and President Joe Biden's face-to-face meeting, where they pledged to reduce tensions. While Xi didn't provide specific details on when or where the pandas would be sent, he hinted that California, possibly San Diego, would likely host the next pair.

Pandas have symbolized U.S.-China friendship since Beijing presented a pair to the National Zoo in Washington in 1972. Over the years, China loaned pandas to various U.S. zoos, with proceeds supporting conservation programs. Currently, only four pandas remain in the U.S., with the National Zoo's pandas recently departing for China.

Xi acknowledged the reluctance of Americans, especially children, to bid farewell to the pandas, noting the anticipation of their return to the San Diego Zoo. The panda announcement adds a positive note to Xi's California visit, where he attended an Indo-Pacific leaders' summit and met with President Biden, fostering cooperation on various fronts.

Source: NBC

Photo: Getty


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