After two giant pandas named Yun Chuan. And Xin Bao arrived at the San Diego Zoo. The globe again directed its attention toward “panda diplomacy” as an international relations focal point. This age-old method in which China utilizes its iconic bears to bolster diplomatic ties has taken on new forms with each introduction of another set of pandas into zoos worldwide.
Historical Context for Panda Diplomacy
Although panda diplomacy can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). It became more prevalent following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. Chairman Mao Zedong started this practice by sending what were known as “panda ambassadors” to the Soviet Union in 1957 during celebrations marking 40 years since October Revolution. Throughout subsequent years, Beijing gifted or lent pandas to other countries as symbols of friendship and peace.
Pandas as Representations for Diplomatic Relations
In 1972 during President Richard Nixon’s visit to China. Two pandas named Hsing-Hsing and Ling Ling were given by China to United States — signifying a thawing period between Sino-American relations after two decades filled with hostility. Similarly, after normalizing diplomatic ties with Japan later that same year. Chinese authorities presented Japanese side with their own pair of these animals too.
However, things changed slightly in 1984 when instead making outright donations like before now zoos had lease them temporarily while paying large sums annually. Some agreements even required annual fees up into millions dollars. Which went towards supporting panda conservation projects within Chinese territory.
And International Trade
Over past several years there have been cases where shortly upon signing agreements surrounding trades such as ones involving uranium mineshafts or other valuable resources between certain countries. And China then not long afterwards those nations receive loaned giant pandas from Beijing government institutions – for example: Australia (2009), Canada & France (2012). Moreover Edinburgh Zoo got its first ever pair gifted by Beijing authorities coinciding with negotiations over contracts concerning salmon farms. Land Rover vehicles etcetera which were taking place at that time.
The Continuing Impact of Panda Diplomacy
Panda diplomacy stretched much further beyond its typical boundaries following relocation efforts made necessary after area was struck by massive earthquake in 2008. This event demonstrated just how far-reaching these agreements could be as they affected various parts around world. Therefore, while continuing to employ them for fostering good relations globally. China will always regard pandas not only valuable tool within nation’s diplomatic arsenal. But also significant driver behind fostering relations. And promoting trade deals more broadly speaking too.
The arrival of Yun Chuan and Xin Bao at the San Diego Zoo does not only represent a win for wildlife enthusiasts. It underscores China’s strategy of using pandas in international diplomacy. As these animals begin settling into their new home. They serve as an enduring symbol for worldwide relationship building through panda diplomacy.
