This decision, released last Friday, is potentially slated for late September. It came after careful deliberation between Chinese and Japanese authorities to ensure optimal care for the aging pandas.
Bi Li, a male born in August 2005, and Xian Nü, a female born in July 2005, have recently exhibited signs of age-related health issues, including high blood pressure. Experts from both nations have been collaborating closely, providing appropriate medical treatment to address these concerns. Despite their health challenges, the pandas' conditions have stabilized, with normal appetites and daily activities reported.
The pandas arrived in Japan in 2011, where they were affectionately renamed Ri Ri and Shin Shin, quickly becoming beloved figures. Their stay in Japan was marked by a joyous event in June 2017 when they became parents to Xiang Xiang.
This panda exchange is part of a broader international conservation effort. Since the 1990s, China has been actively collaborating with various countries and regions on giant panda protection initiatives. These partnerships, which span 17 countries including the United States, Austria, and Singapore, focus on breeding programs, disease research, and public education about these iconic animals.
As preparations for Bi Li and Xian Nü's return to China progress, their journey represents not just the movement of two animals, but the ongoing commitment to international cooperation in wildlife conservation. Their story highlights the delicate balance between public engagement with endangered species and the paramount importance of the animals' well-being.
