China has sent two giant pandas to the United States following Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent summit with US President Donald Trump.
The transfer had already been agreed. However, the announcement came during Xi’s visit to Washington.
Pandas Begin 15-Hour Journey to Atlanta
The pandas, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, left Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport early Sunday.
They travelled on a chartered flight at around 3am local time.
The pair is heading to Zoo Atlanta in Georgia, where they are expected to remain for the next 10 years.
Chinese state media reported that steamed corn buns, bamboo shoots and carrots were prepared for the pandas during their journey.
US animal keepers also accompanied them on the flight.
Zoo Atlanta Prepares for Their Arrival
Zoo Atlanta has renovated its panda facilities ahead of their arrival.
The zoo has also assembled a dedicated team of animal caretakers.
A long-term bamboo supply has been arranged to meet the pandas’ dietary needs.
The zoo previously hosted Chinese pandas for 25 years, beginning in 1999.
However, it has not housed pandas since 2024.
Both Ping Ping and Fu Shuang were born in 2020.
Ping Ping is a six-year-old male, while Fu Shuang will turn six next month.
Pandas in captivity can typically live for around 30 years.
Pandas Continue China’s Diplomatic Tradition
China has used giant pandas as symbols of friendship and diplomacy for decades.
The practice is commonly known as “panda diplomacy.”
In 1972, China sent a pair of pandas to the United States after President Richard Nixon’s historic visit to China.
The latest transfer comes after the Xi-Trump summit in Washington.
While the summit produced limited major breakthroughs, the panda exchange carries diplomatic symbolism between the two countries.
Zoo Atlanta is now preparing to welcome the new arrivals after their long journey from Chengdu.
