Giant pandas are back in the United States, bringing excitement to visitors at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. After a brief absence, Bao Li and Qing Bao, two young pandas from China, made their public debut, delighting crowds as they played in the snow and munched on bamboo.
Their arrival marks the continuation of panda diplomacy, a long-standing tradition between China and the U.S. that has spanned over 50 years. But how did this unique form of diplomacy begin, and why is it so important? Let’s take a closer look at the history of panda exchanges between China and the world.
The History of Panda Diplomacy
Panda diplomacy—China’s practice of gifting or loaning pandas to other countries to strengthen diplomatic ties—has a history dating back centuries.
Early Panda Diplomacy: From the Tang Dynasty to World War II
- 7th century: Empress Wu Zetian of China’s Tang Dynasty is believed to have sent pandas as gifts to Japan, making this one of the earliest records of panda diplomacy.
- 1941: As a token of appreciation to the U.S. during World War II, China sent two pandas to the Bronx Zoo in New York.
- 1950s: Chairman Mao Zedong continued the tradition, gifting pandas to allies such as North Korea and the Soviet Union.
The Start of U.S.-China Panda Relations
The most famous instance of panda diplomacy began in 1972, following U.S. President Richard Nixon’s historic visit to China, which helped ease tensions between the two countries. As a goodwill gesture, China sent two pandas, Hsing-Hsing and Ling-Ling, to the National Zoo in Washington, D.C.
- Over 75,000 visitors came to see the pandas during their debut weekend.
- In return, the U.S. sent two musk oxen, Milton and Mathilda, to China (though they initially suffered from “culture shock”).
Hsing-Hsing and Ling-Ling remained beloved zoo attractions for decades. Ling-Ling passed away in 1992, while Hsing-Hsing was euthanized in 1999 due to health issues.
Modern Panda Exchanges and Conservation Efforts
China’s Shift to Panda Loans
- In 1984, China changed its approach, offering pandas to foreign zoos on 10-year loan agreements with an annual fee of $1 million.
- Any cubs born abroad would still belong to China.
- In 1988, the U.S. agreed to the terms but insisted that half of the fee go toward panda conservation efforts.
2000-2023: The Mei Xiang and Tian Tian Era
- In 2000, pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian arrived at the National Zoo, capturing the hearts of visitors for over 23 years.
- The pair had a cub, Xiao Qi Ji, in 2020.
- In November 2023, the panda family returned to China as their lease expired.
Concerns arose that strained U.S.-China relations might bring an end to panda diplomacy. However, just months later, the National Zoo announced the arrival of Bao Li and Qing Bao, signaling a renewed commitment to this diplomatic tradition.
The Return of Pandas to the U.S. in 2024
In October 2023, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo welcomed two new pandas:
- Bao Li (male, 3 years old)
- Qing Bao (female, 3 years old)
Hailing from Chengdu, China, the pandas spent months adjusting to their new home before making their public debut in January 2024. Their arrival ensures that the National Zoo continues its 52-year tradition of hosting giant pandas.
Why Panda Diplomacy Matters
According to Barbara Bodine, a former U.S. foreign service official, pandas are “probably the most successful soft diplomacy animals any nation has ever come up with.” But why is panda diplomacy so significant?
- Strengthening International Relations: Panda loans symbolize friendship and cooperation between China and its partner countries.
- Boosting Conservation Awareness: Hosting pandas increases global interest in panda conservation and habitat protection.
- Economic and Tourism Benefits: Pandas attract millions of visitors to zoos, benefiting both conservation programs and local economies.
The return of pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao to the National Zoo marks another chapter in the long tradition of panda diplomacy between China and the U.S. Since 1972, these gentle giants have served as symbols of friendship, conservation, and cultural exchange.
While the political landscape may change, the joy that pandas bring to people worldwide remains constant. As long as panda diplomacy continues, these black-and-white ambassadors will keep strengthening international bonds—one playful frolic at a time.
