Pandas Return: Japan's Beloved Bears Head Back to China Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Japan is set to bid farewell to its adored twin pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, as they return to China amid rising diplomatic tensions between the two nations. This marks the end of an era for Japan, which has hosted pandas since 1972, symbolizing Sino-Japanese friendship.

Twin pandas, a favorite among the Japanese public, are being repatriated to China next week amid an ongoing diplomatic spat between Beijing and Tokyo. China indicated it is unlikely to send replacements following comments from Japan's Prime Minister regarding Taiwan.

Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, currently residing in Ueno Zoo, are slated for departure on January 27, marking the first time since 1972 that Japan will be without pandas, seen as a symbol of diplomatic ties. They will join their elder sister Xiang Xiang in China.

The pandas, born in Japan to parents on loan from China, are caught in the crossfire of the recent tensions, with the current political climate casting doubt on future panda loans. Under the 'panda diplomacy' program, pandas remain the property of China and must return there.