China's Panda Diplomacy: Cute Ambassadors Boost Global Relations

China is leveraging its beloved giant pandas as part of a strategy known as panda diplomacy, enhancing its soft power and funding conservation efforts. A notable example is Hua-Hua, a panda residing in Chengdu, who draws thousands of visitors and has over 10,000 followers on China's TikTok app. Viewing opportunities for Hua-Hua are limited to 30 people for just three minutes at a time, underscoring the panda's popularity.

Historically, panda diplomacy dates back to the mid-20th century, initially involving the gifting of pandas to countries with which China maintained favorable relations. However, the practice has evolved; China now leases pandas for a duration of 10-15 years, requiring leasing countries to pay significant fees that support panda conservation and habitat protection. Last year, for instance, China leased two pandas to the United States.

The tradition began under Chinese Communist leader Mao Zedong in 1957 when he sent two pandas to the Soviet Union. Over the years, notable exchanges included the 1972 gifting of pandas to the U.S. following President Richard Nixon’s visit to China. Since 1984, however, China has moved to a leasing system, costing zoos up to 8 crore Rupees annually, in addition to food and maintenance expenses.

While many Chinese citizens take pride in sharing pandas globally, some express concerns about sending them to nations seen as adversarial, fearing potential mistreatment.