According to Xinhua, three giant pandas Tian Bao, Bao Di, and Bao Mei, born at Pairi Daiza Zoo in Belgium, began their journey back to China on December 10, marking an important milestone in the panda conservation program between the two countries.
Tian Bao, born in 2016, and his twins Bao Di and Bao Mei, born in 2019, will participate in conservation and breeding projects at the China Conservation and Research Center for Giant Pandas in Bifengxia, Sichuan Province.
Despite the chilly December weather, nearly a thousand people gathered at the zoo to say goodbye to the adorable pandas. All three bears were in specially designed cages for the flight.
At the farewell ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to Belgium Fei Shengchao said: “Giant pandas are not only adorable and rare animals that bring joy to people, but also serve as a bridge connecting people and promoting cultural exchanges. They symbolize the common commitment of China and Belgium to protecting nature and living in harmony with the environment.”
Since the three panda parents Hao Hao and Xing Hui arrived in Belgium in 2014, they have attracted millions of visitors and raised awareness about protecting giant pandas.
Pairi Daiza Zoo founder Eric Domb expressed his pride and sadness at having to part with the pandas. “We will continue to care for the giant pandas with love, as we have always done. We will try to help them give birth to more cubs in the near future,” he continued.
The pandas began their quarantine period on November 11 to ensure they were ready for the journey. Although their return was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they are now ready to contribute to conservation efforts at the Bifengxia base, where they will continue to live.
Hao Hao and Xing Hui will stay at Pairi Daiza until 2029, continuing their role as ambassadors for China-Belgium relations, while promoting cultural exchanges and raising environmental awareness.
