Panda Pals Arrive: A New Chapter in U. S. -China Ties

Two new giant panda friends, Bao Li and Qing Bao, have just moved into the National Zoo in Washington, D. C. They're only 3 years old but already super important for U. S. -China relations. After some tense times, it seems the two countries are trying to be friends again, using the pandas as a sign of peace. This isn't the first panda swap—pandas have been traveling between the U. S. and China since the 1970s. But these two bears are special because they're the first to arrive since a big chill in relations. The pandas flew in with their own panda VIP service. They had yummy snacks like steamed corn buns and bamboo shoots, and even some medicine for any hiccups along the way. Three experts from the U. S. went to China to help make sure the pandas were comfortable. They'll stay with the bears for a while to make sure everything goes smoothly. But why all the fuss over pandas? Well, these cute creatures are a big deal in China. They're like a national mascot, and only about 1,800 pandas live in the wild today. China lends pandas to other countries to help with conservation efforts. The National Zoo has been panda-less since last year, when another set of pandas went back to China. Now, with Bao Li and Qing Bao, the zoo is getting its panda vibe back. Other zoos in the U. S. have also welcomed new panda friends this year. San Diego Zoo got some panda pals in June, and San Francisco Zoo is getting ready to welcome a pair too. It's like a panda party in America!