Post by : Meena
Hassan
On Sunday, a crowd of thousands flocked to Ueno Zoo in Tokyo to bid an emotional farewell to Japan’s final two giant pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, who are set to return to China on Tuesday. Fans eagerly formed long lines, some waiting over three and a half hours for one last glimpse of the beloved twin cubs.
The pandas, born in 2021 to parents Shin Shin and Ri Ri—loans from China for breeding and research—are leaving Japan, marking the end of a tradition that has existed since diplomatic relations were established in 1972.
Giant pandas have been a longstanding emblem of friendship from China, which lends these rare creatures to various nations as a diplomatic gesture. Nonetheless, China retains ownership of all pandas, including their cubs, and participating countries are required to pay significant yearly fees for this privilege.
This farewell occurs amid increasing diplomatic friction between Japan and China, particularly following comments from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about potential military involvement should China act against Taiwan. Beijing condemned these remarks and maintains that Taiwan is an integral part of its territory, with force not ruled out to assert authority.
The panda loans have become overshadowed by trade negotiations and political dynamics, with China tightening regulations on rare earth exports to Japan, causing concern over future collaborations including potential new panda loans.
For many in Japan, the pandas represent a significant cultural and diplomatic bond. One mother remarked that she had been bringing her son to see the pandas since infancy, wishing to create lasting memories. As the farewell approached, visitors expressed heartfelt nostalgia over the pandas' journey.
With the imminent departure of Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, Japan finds itself entering an unusual phase devoid of its cherished pandas, underscoring not only a shift in its zoo’s inhabitants but also a more intricate chapter in its relationship with China.
English
