San Diego, CA, USA - June 26, 2024

A poignant farewell ceremony marked a historic moment as China bid adieu to giant pandas Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, set to embark on their journey to the San Diego Zoo. The event, held at the China Conservation & Research Center for Giant Pandas in Sichuan province, was attended by dignitaries from both the United States and China, including San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance President and CEO Paul Baribault and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria.

The ceremony featured cultural performances, heartfelt video messages from Chinese and American students, and a symbolic exchange of gifts among conservation partners. Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, the first panda pair to enter the United States in over two decades, will soon make their way to San Diego. Upon arrival, they will undergo a period of acclimatization before their public debut, ensuring their comfort in their new habitat.

"We are thrilled to welcome Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to the San Diego Zoo," said Baribault. "This ceremony celebrates not only their journey but also the enduring collaboration between the U.S. and China in giant panda conservation. Our partnership has been pivotal in advancing conservation efforts, reflecting our commitment to the survival and prosperity of this iconic species."

The longstanding collaboration between San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and China Wildlife Conservation Association has significantly contributed to the conservation status of giant pandas, which was downgraded from Endangered to Vulnerable in 2016. The partnership has pioneered techniques such as a specialized panda milk formula and advanced reproductive methods, enhancing survival rates and genetic diversity among panda populations.

As the world celebrates this milestone, efforts continue to bolster panda populations, particularly those most vulnerable to extinction. The ongoing collaboration aims to ensure a sustainable future for these beloved creatures, embodying a shared commitment to global conservation efforts.