Exciting New Arrivals at the National Zoo
Washington, D.C. is abuzz with excitement as two new pandas have arrived at the National Zoo. After a year-long absence following the return of popular pandas Mei Xiang, Tian Tian, and their cub Xiao Qi Ji back to China, fans can now look forward to the delightful presence of three-year-old pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao. These charming creatures were welcomed at Dulles Airport before continuing their journey to their new home.
The Journey of Bao Li and Qing Bao
According to the Chinese Association for the Protection of Wildlife, the pandas’ journey included a carefully planned menu of food, including cornbread, bamboo, carrots, and essential medicine. Following their arrival, Bao Li and Qing Bao will undergo a quarantine period, ensuring they are acclimatized to their new environment. This is a crucial step to ensure their well-being before they are made available for public viewing.
Panda Diplomacy: A 10-Year Agreement
The arrival of these pandas is part of a new 10-year agreement between the United States and China. This agreement comes in the wake of rising diplomatic tensions, causing concern over the future of the panda exchange program. However, the ongoing support from Chinese President Xi Jinping reflects a commitment to maintaining this beloved aspect of panda diplomacy. Historical ties date back to the 1970s, when the first pair of pandas arrived in the U.S. after President Richard Nixon’s visit to China.
Under these agreements, the U.S. typically pays around one million dollars annually per panda, with stipulations on returning any panda offspring to China before they reach four years of age. The reintroduction of Bao Li and Qing Bao marks a hopeful chapter in the continued partnership between the two nations.
