Belgium-Based Giant Pandas Tian Bao, Bao Di, and Bao Mei Safely Arrive in Chengdu

According to the China Wildlife Conservation Association on December 11, the Belgium-based giant panda cubs Tian Bao, Bao Di, and Bao Mei have safely arrived in Chengdu.

Under the China-Belgium Giant Panda International Cooperation Agreement, and following mutual consultation, the three panda cubs residing at Pairi Daiza Zoo in Belgium—Tian Bao (male, born June 2, 2016), and twins Bao Di and Bao Mei (born August 8, 2019)—returned to Chengdu today.

To ensure the safe and smooth return of the three cubs, experienced Chinese experts were dispatched to Belgium in advance. These specialists familiarized themselves with the pandas’ habits and care routines, assisted local experts in conducting behavioral training, routine health checks, and health evaluations, and accompanied the pandas on their flight back to China.

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Despite the cold winds, nearly a thousand local residents gathered early at the zoo to bid farewell to the adorable pandas. One attendee remarked, “I came to say goodbye to the panda cubs. We love them very much. We witnessed their birth and growth, watching them play and thrive. Now it’s time to say goodbye.”

Starting November 10, the three pandas underwent a month-long quarantine. Upon their return to China, they will undergo another month of quarantine. During transportation, staff wore protective suits and panda-themed hats to ensure safety and hygiene.

Pairi Daiza Zoo Director Eric Domb shared that the zoo spent months preparing for the pandas’ return. Although their departure marks the end of an era, it is also a new beginning. These beloved creatures carry the blessings of the Belgian people as they return to China to continue spreading the seeds of friendship.

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Fei Shengchao, Chinese Ambassador to Belgium, reflected on the giant pandas’ role as a bridge of friendship between China and Belgium and expressed his good wishes for their return. He remarked, “The panda siblings will bring the goodwill of their Belgian friends to their new home at the Bifengxia Panda Base in Sichuan, where they will continue to thrive. We will always keep track of their lives and welcome everyone to visit them in China.”

In February 2014, giant pandas Xing Hui and Hao Hao arrived in Belgium as symbols of Sino-Belgian friendship and settled at Pairi Daiza Zoo. In June 2016, Hao Hao gave birth to Tian Bao, the first giant panda born in Belgium. On August 8, 2019, she gave birth to twins Bao Di and Bao Mei. Under the China-Belgium panda loan agreement, Xing Hui and Hao Hao will continue to reside at Pairi Daiza Zoo until 2029.