The giant pandas Bi Li and Xian Nü, residing at Ueno Zoo in Japan, are set to be returned to their native China earlier than originally planned, potentially by the end of September. This decision comes after discussions between China and Japan aimed at ensuring optimal care for the pandas, particularly given the age-related health concerns they have been facing.

Bi Li, who was born in August 2005, and Xian Nü, born in July 2005, have been presenting symptoms typical of older animals, including high blood pressure. Experts from both nations have been in constant contact, assessing their health and jointly deciding on appropriate treatments, which appear to have been beneficial so far, as both pandas are currently maintaining normal appetites and activity levels.

The pair has been living in the zoo since arriving in Japan in 2011 and was met with great enthusiasm. While in Japan, they also became parents to a cub named Xiang Xiang, born in June 2017. Since the 1990s, China has been involved in international efforts for the conservation of giant pandas, collaborating with numerous countries on initiatives such as breeding and public education. Currently, China is engaged in conservation partnerships with 17 countries and regions, including the US, Austria, and Singapore.