The only pair of giant pandas in the Southern Hemisphere, Wang Wang and Fu Ni, have departed Adelaide Zoo, returning to China after 15 wonderful years in Australia.
At a heartfelt farewell reception, Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian expressed gratitude for the care provided by the zoo staff. “Over the past 15 years, China and Australia have made significant progress in panda conservation, disease prevention, and healthcare,” he said. “Wang Wang and Fu Ni have been exceptionally well-cared for, thanks to the dedication and hard work of the zoo staff.”
Wang Wang and Fu Ni arrived at Adelaide Zoo in 2009 as part of a joint conservation and research program between China and Australia. They quickly became symbols of friendship between the two nations.
“Giant pandas, as ambassadors of friendship, carry the warmth and goodwill of the Chinese people, sowing seeds of peace and friendship that transcend borders,” Ambassador Xiao added. “For 15 years, they have brought joy to many Australian children and families, becoming part of countless warm memories.”
Zoe Bettison, South Australia’s Minister for Tourism and Multicultural Affairs, shared in the emotional farewell. “It is with deep sadness and gratefulness that we wave goodbye to Wang Wang and Fu Ni today,” she said. “Australian people are connected to these beautiful giant pandas.”
Excitingly, Bettison announced that two young giant pandas will be coming to Adelaide Zoo in the future. “This continues conservation. This continues our friendship. We wait for them to join us,” she said.
As Wang Wang and Fu Ni begin their journey back to China, they leave behind a legacy of joy, education, and strengthened ties between Australia and China. Their time in Adelaide will be fondly remembered by all who visited them.
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Southern Hemisphere's only pair of giant pandas return to China
cgtn.com
