In 2020, the global corona pandemic began in a laboratory in China. This time, however, the Chinese are giving the Americans reason to celebrate: PANDAmy is suddenly reigning in the US capital Washington DC!
On Tuesday, two panda bears, Bao Li and Qing Bao, arrived at the Washington Zoo, which was apparently closed specifically for their arrival. “The new stars of the capital are here!” confirms the zoo on platform
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As US media reports, the two three-year-old animals started their journey from the Chinese city of Chengdu. They were transported in a specially equipped FedEx cargo plane – called “Panda Express”.
Panda pact between USA and China
First Lady Jill Biden (73) officially announced the “historic moment” for the US capital in May. She emphasized the importance of the exchange, which, in addition to protecting species, is also a symbol of diplomatic efforts between China and the USA.
Last year, the Washington Zoo sent its three pandas back to China because their lease had expired. It was difficult for many visitors to say goodbye. Now Bao Li and Qing Bao are supposed to create new enthusiasm.
Bao Li before his departure from China to the USA
Photo: AP
The arrival of the two black and white newcomers is part of decades-long “panda diplomacy,” in which China sends its pandas on loan to selected zoos around the world.
Bao Li and Qing Bao will also only stay in Washington temporarily: the agreement runs until 2034. If the couple had children during this time, they would have to return to China at the age of four, as usual. The animals, popular with many zoo visitors, are mostly native to the southwestern province of Sichuan.
Tense relations with China
But the relationship between the US and China is currently more black than white…
Washington has made serious allegations against Beijing, including human rights violations, unfair trade practices and illegal territorial claims in the South China Sea. Beijing, in turn, accuses the USA of deliberately hindering the development of the People’s Republic with sanctions and punitive tariffs and of interfering in its internal affairs as a hegemonic power.
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Despite these mutual accusations, US President Joe Biden (81) and China’s head of state Xi Jinping (71) signaled their willingness to intensify communication last November. In this context, Xi also raised hopes for new pandas for Washington.
