For nearly 1400 years, China has had a tradition of gifting panda bears to countries it wants to establish friendly relations with. For example, in the 8th century AD, the Tang dynasty empress Wu Zeitan is credited with having gifted the Japanese emperor two panda bears from forests in China. This was a gesture of goodwill between the nations. While this tradition has continued across centuries, relations between the USA and China broke down soon after the second World War.

How did things change once panda bears went to visit zoos in the USA, UK and other parts of Europe and Asia? Listen to the full episode to find out more about the story of 'panda diplomacy'.

Did you love this episode and would like to support us by buying us a cup of coffee for $3 or INR 249? Please click here to donate to us

Do you like to read stories? Read our newsletters here
Get Whatsapp alerts here
Follow us on Instagram

Email your comments at hello@wsnt.in.