The panda trade in China’s diplomatic relations dates back to the Tang Dynasty, but now the bears are back in the headlines as Chinese premier Li Qiang visits Australia.
The panda trade in China’s diplomatic relations dates back to the Tang Dynasty, which ruled from 618 through 907 CE.
Senior fellow for U.S-China Expert Dennis Wilder explains the political strategies behind the cuddly bears on The Briefing podcast:
U.S-China Dialogue on Global Issues Dennis Wilder said “The Chinese charge a pretty penny” for their pandas.
Wilder said the Washington Zoo agreement is a million dollars a year per panda, half a million for a baby panda, and they must return home in four years.
“I think the Chinese are trying to think strategically that if they sort of grab American children or Australian children early with something positive,” he said.
Wilder said the Chinese are trying to achieve a more positive attitude toward China, especially among Western children.
“I would hope that politicians don’t sort of get clouded or diverted from the real issues in the relationship by panda diplomacy.”
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