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A Giant Leap for Friendship: Welcoming Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to the San Diego Zoo

SAN DIEGO – In a moment as grand as the pandas themselves, California is rolling out the bamboo carpet for its newest, possibly fluffiest, ambassadors of goodwill. Today, the San Diego Zoo opened its doors to two special guests: Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, the first giant pandas to set paw on U.S. soil in 21 years. This joyful occasion is more than just a fuzzy, black-and-white spectacle; it symbolizes hope, unity, and a shared commitment to conservation between the U.S. and China.

Governor Gavin Newsom, alongside First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, led the celebrations at Panda Ridge, the newly reimagined habitat that will now be the permanent home for these gentle giants. The Governor’s excitement was palpable as he declared California Panda Day today—a fitting tribute to these creatures who are national treasures and international icons.

Before the festivities, Governor Newsom privately met with the Chinese Ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng. Their discussion centered on the significance of this panda partnership in strengthening U.S.-China relations—a relationship that has seen its fair share of ups and downs but, like the pandas, has the potential to thrive with care and cooperation.

Xie Feng and Gavin Newsom

“Welcoming these national treasures to the San Diego Zoo is a proud moment for California,” Governor Newsom stated, his voice brimming with pride. “This reflects our strong foundation of partnership with China on various issues, from climate action to economic development. Working with our international partners to protect this iconic wildlife species, we can achieve remarkable conservation and cultural exchange outcomes—benefiting our communities and the planet.”

The show’s stars are five-year-old Yun Chuan and four-year-old Xin Bao. They seemed blissfully unaware of their debut's global significance as they explored their new surroundings. Yun Chuan carries an extraordinary legacy—he’s the son of Zhen Zhen, a panda born right here at the San Diego Zoo in 2007, and the grandchild of the legendary Bai Yun and Gao Gao, who were beloved residents of the zoo in the early 2000s.

Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to the San Diego Zoo

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the conservation partnership between the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and the China Wildlife Conservation Association. This collaboration has been nothing short of a triumph, leading to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's downgrading of the giant panda’s status from Endangered to Vulnerable in 2016—a milestone for which both countries can be proud.

“We are delighted to introduce Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to the world,” said Paul Baribault, President and CEO of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “Guests will have an opportunity to visit with these remarkable giant pandas, be inspired by their importance, learn about all we do to help conserve them alongside our trusted Chinese partners and join us to help protect their future.”

The day’s celebration was topped off with the unveiling of an original portrait by renowned California-based artist Shepard Fairey. The portrait depicts Bai Yun, Yun Chuan’s maternal grandmother, who spent over 20 years captivating hearts at the San Diego Zoo.

So, whether you’re a longtime panda fan or a first-time visitor, Panda Ridge is the place to be! It’s a joyous spot where history, art, and a little panda magic come together to remind us all of the power of friendship—one that just might be big enough to bring more peace to the world. Don’t miss your chance to see these friendly giants in action and be part of a story that’s not just about two pandas but about two great nations working hand in paw to make the world a better place.