Two giant pandas from China, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, have arrived in Atlanta, Georgia, as part of a new 10-year agreement between China and the United States.
The pandas, a male and female both born in 2020, were transported from the Chengdu Research Base in southwestern China aboard a specially chartered FedEx Boeing 777. The aircraft landed at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport shortly before 7:00am local time on Sunday, September 27.
The transfer was finalised in April and was officially announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping during his recent meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House.
The agreement is being viewed as a gesture of renewed friendship between the two countries, amid ongoing disagreements over trade, artificial intelligence, Taiwan and the war involving Iran.
Before the pandas arrived, Zoo Atlanta upgraded their habitats and secured a long-term supply of bamboo grown locally. The animals were also accompanied by a specialised care team during their 16-hour journey.
However, visitors will not be able to see them immediately. Zoo officials said Ping Ping and Fu Shuang will undergo approximately one month of quarantine in a biosecure area before their public debut.
China has used giant panda loans for decades as a form of diplomatic outreach, commonly known as “panda diplomacy.” The animals have been sent to zoos in other countries to promote goodwill and strengthen diplomatic relationships.
Zoo Atlanta President and CEO Raymond B. King described the arrival as a historic moment for Atlanta and Georgia, saying the zoo was excited to welcome the pandas and share them with the public in the coming weeks.
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