Vantage | How pandas became a part of Chinese diplomacy

In the ever-evolving landscape of international relations, China has employed a unique and seemingly unconventional tool to navigate diplomatic tensions – pandas. This practice, known as “Panda Diplomacy”, has been a hallmark of China’s outreach efforts, particularly with United States.

Historical roots of Panda Diplomacy The roots of Panda Diplomacy can be traced back to 1972 when former US president Richard Nixon visited Beijing. During a historic dinner, the first lady, Patricia Nixon, expressed her fondness for pandas to China’s Premier Zhou Enlai. In a gesture of goodwill, China subsequently gifted two pandas to Washington, marking the beginning of a longstanding tradition. Over the decades, this furry form of diplomacy has flourished. Additional bears were sent to the US and Chinese pandas became beloved attractions in American zoos. The bond between the nations and the pandas grew stronger with fans travelling great distances to catch a glimpse of these iconic animals. Panda express takes flight However, recent events have stirred what some may call “panda-monium” in the US. Earlier this month, pandas that had been residing in American zoos were scheduled to return to China. The departure of these beloved bears, accompanied by a presidential-level send-off, drew attention and stirred emotions among the American public. In the face of escalating tensions between US and China, Beijing has proposed a remedy – more pandas. Chinese President Xi Jinping, in a statement, highlighted the longstanding role of pandas as “envoys of friendship” between the two nations. The intention is clear: to use the charm of these black-and-white ambassadors to stabilise rocky relations. He expressed China’s readiness to continue cooperation with US on panda protection, signalling a new chapter in the ongoing saga of Panda Diplomacy. “I learned San Diego Zoo and the Californian people very much look forward to welcoming pandas back. Pandas have long been envoys of friendship between China and the US. We are ready to continue our cooperation on panda protection with the US," said President Xi. For China, pandas serve as an unofficial barometer of international relations. These bamboo-eating bears have been dispatched to over 20 countries worldwide, acting as symbols of friendship from Beijing. However, it’s noteworthy that, despite the historical success of panda loans, China has not sent new pandas to the US for the past two decades. Controversies and criticisms The prospect of new pandas heading to US has sparked both enthusiasm and scepticism. Some argue that China should focus on improving relations without relying on cute, furry animals. Reports of mistreatment and health issues among pandas returned from US have fuelled concerns leading to calls for a more ethical approach to Panda Diplomacy. While the idea of pandas mending geopolitical rifts may seem whimsical, it raises questions about the intersection of diplomacy and animal welfare. As tensions persist on the global stage, China’s use of Panda Diplomacy serves as a reminder that even the cutest ambassadors can play a role in international affairs. “If pandas, under the protection of China, can reproduce in large numbers and survive all over the world, I think this is a good thing. It’s also a good thing for mankind,” said Yin Jie, a tourist from Shanghai. In the complex world of geopolitics, where disputes are often marked by seriousness and severity, the panda’s role as a diplomatic emissary introduces a unique and lighthearted dimension. Whether pandas can truly bridge the gap between nations remains to be seen, but their place in the annals of international diplomacy is undoubtedly secure. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.