France Returns Beloved Pandas to China Following Kidney Failure Diagnosis: A Diplomatic Journey Ends

Nov 25, 2025 02:50 pm CST

After a decade in France as symbols of China's diplomatic goodwill, pandas Huan Huan and Yuan Zi are returning to China due to Huan Huan's kidney failure. The pair, who made history by producing France's first panda cubs, leave behind heartbroken fans and caretakers at Beauval Zoo while highlighting the ongoing significance of China's strategic "panda diplomacy" program.