The arrival of a pair of giant pandas in Hong Kong from mainland China has been met with a VIP welcome. This event comes as Beijing marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the People’s Republic of China under the communist party.
The adorable pair, named “Le Le” and “Ying Ying”, are expected to boost the local tourism industry as the cities, like many parts around the world, recover from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Both pandas came from the Sichuan Conservatory in mainland China and their arrival is seen as a symbol of unity in times of political tension between Hong Kong and Beijing.
This is not the first time pandas, which are seen as a national treasure in China, have been used in such diplomatic exchanges. Indeed, “panda diplomacy” is a well-known feature of China’s diplomatic relationships, with pandas often being loaned to other countries as goodwill gestures.
As part of their VIP welcome, the pair were presented with a specially prepared meal and were allowed to rest in their new enclosure at Hong Kong’s Ocean Park to get acclimated before they are unveiled to the public. It is hoped that their presence will help increase visitor numbers and improve the local economy.
Panda pair arrive to VIP welcome in Hong Kong, as Beijing marks 75 years of communist China
The arrival of a pair of giant pandas in Hong Kong from mainland China has been met with a VIP welcome. This event comes as Beijing marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the People’s Republic of China under the communist party.
The adorable pair, named “Le Le” and “Ying Ying”, are expected to boost the local tourism industry as the cities, like many parts around the world, recover from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Both pandas came from the Sichuan Conservatory in mainland China and their arrival is seen as a symbol of unity in times of political tension between Hong Kong and Beijing.
This is not the first time pandas, which are seen as a national treasure in China, have been used in such diplomatic exchanges. Indeed, “panda diplomacy” is a well-known feature of China’s diplomatic relationships, with pandas often being loaned to other countries as goodwill gestures.
As part of their VIP welcome, the pair were presented with a specially prepared meal and were allowed to rest in their new enclosure at Hong Kong’s Ocean Park to get acclimated before they are unveiled to the public. It is hoped that their presence will help increase visitor numbers and improve the local economy.
