Panda diplomacy” returns to the US as two Chinese pandas arrive at Atlanta Zoo

Atlanta Zoo has welcomed two giant pandas from China, which will stay in the US for 10 years under an agreement aimed at conserving and breeding the species.

Ping Ping, 6, and Fu Shuang, 5, traveled around 8,000 miles from China to Atlanta. They made the journey by plane, accompanied by fresh bamboo, water and their favorite foods.

Before departure, both animals underwent a period of quarantine and training to get used to their transport crates and the noises associated with the journey.

The public, however, will have to wait to see them. Ping Ping and Fu Shuang will remain in quarantine for about a month before making their debut for visitors.

The pandas’ arrival in Atlanta is also linked to efforts to protect the species, which is still considered vulnerable. Breeding in captivity presents major challenges, as females are fertile for only a very short period each year.

Ping Ping and Fu Shuang were selected based on their age, health, genetic traits and personalities. There are hopes they will mate naturally.

The two animals are part of what is known as “panda diplomacy,” a practice through which China has for decades used panda loans as a way to develop diplomatic relations with other countries.

The agreement stipulates that the pandas, as well as their offspring, will remain the property of China and will return to the country in the future.