China announced on Friday, April 24, 2026, that it will send a new pair of giant pandas to the United States, underscoring the enduring "bridge of friendship" between the two nations. The pandas, named Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, are set to travel to Zoo Atlanta under a 10-year international conservation cooperation agreement.
"The giant panda is China's national treasure and also serves as a bridge of friendship among peoples around the world," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun during a regular press briefing.
The China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA) stated that this move continues over two decades of panda cooperation between the American zoo and China. From 1999 to 2024, Zoo Atlanta was home to the panda pair Yang Yang and Lun Lun, who successfully raised seven cubs, marking the best breeding record for China's panda cooperation efforts with Europe and the Americas.
Raymond B. King, President and CEO of Zoo Atlanta, expressed delight at the continuation of the partnership. "Zoo Atlanta is delighted and honored to yet again be trusted as stewards of this treasured species," King said in a statement.
The new cooperation is expected to contribute to the well-being of giant pandas, enhance conservation capacities for endangered species, and promote global biodiversity conservation, while strengthening the friendship between the peoples of China and the US.
Reference(s):
China to send two pandas to US, highlighting 'bridge of friendship'
cgtn.com
