BEIJING (AP) — San Francisco is the latest U.S. city preparing to receive a pair of pandas from China, in a continuation of Beijing’s famed “panda diplomacy.”
San Francisco Mayor London Breed announced the panda loan in Beijing on Friday, alongside officials from China Wildlife Conservation Association, or CWCA. It will be San Francisco’s first time hosting the beloved animals long-term — the result of a yearlong advocacy campaign, Breed said.
San Diego previously announced it was receiving two pandas back in February.
China is home to the only natural habitat for pandas and owns most of the black-and-white bears in the world. Beijing loans the animals to other countries as a tool for diplomacy and wildlife conservation.
“San Francisco is absolutely thrilled to be welcoming giant pandas to the San Francisco Zoo,” Breed said after signing a letter of intent for international cooperation on giant panda conservation.
China handles nearly 5.19 mln entry
Royals catcher Salvador Perez sidelined by mild groin strain
Giants quarterback Daniel Jones hopes to be ready for the start of training camp
Thrice divorced Whoopi Goldberg, 68, admits she NEVER wanted to get married
Royals catcher Salvador Perez sidelined by mild groin strain
Bill meant to improve math skills passes as Kentucky lawmakers approach end of legislative session
Revised budget adjustment removes obstacle as Maine lawmakers try to wrap up work
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are OVERPAID at $75k
Caitlin Clark selected with No. 1 in the WNBA draft by the Indiana Fever