Panda Diplomacy: A Reunion of Dreams in China

French first lady Brigitte Macron visited a panda reserve in China, reconnecting with Yuan Meng, a panda born in France in 2017. Known for 'panda diplomacy,' China uses these animals to foster international relations. Discussions during the Macrons' visit also included potential future panda exchanges with France.

French first lady Brigitte Macron was reunited with a familiar face—a giant panda named Yuan Meng—during her recent visit to China with President Emmanuel Macron. The couple visited a panda reserve in southwest China, where Yuan Meng now resides.

Originally born in France in 2017, Yuan Meng was named with the help of Brigitte Macron and signifies the 'accomplishment of a dream.' The reunion highlighted China's 'panda diplomacy,' which involves gifting and loaning pandas to countries to enrich diplomatic relations.

Emmanuel Macron's state visit included discussions with China's President Xi Jinping on significant international issues, such as Russia's conflict with Ukraine and trade relations. The trip also paved the way for future panda exchanges, as confirmed by the China Wildlife Conservation Association.

(With inputs from agencies.)