China's conservation efforts reached a milestone this week as the Mianyang Giant Panda Base in Sichuan Province welcomed 6,300 visitors during its trial opening on Monday. The sprawling 120-hectare facility, operated by the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, represents the organization's fifth site dedicated to preserving this iconic species.
Designed as a hub for breeding programs, scientific research, and international collaboration, the base features state-of-the-art habitats and research laboratories. A staff member told reporters: "This facility allows us to expand our conservation network while creating new opportunities for global partnerships in wildlife protection."
The opening comes as China continues to play a leading role in panda conservation, with current population estimates showing steady growth in wild and captive populations. The base is expected to strengthen China's "panda diplomacy" initiatives, which have fostered scientific cooperation with 20 countries since 2023.
Tourists observed cubs interacting with enrichment activities during the inaugural visit, while researchers demonstrated new AI-assisted monitoring systems. The base will officially launch its international exchange program in early 2026, welcoming scientists from APEC members and other regions.
