TOKYO (AP) — Thousands of Japanese fans, some wiping away tears, bid farewell to a beloved Japanese\u002Dborn giant panda that made her final public appearance…
The panda fans gathered at Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo for one last look at Xiang Xiang, the park’s idol since her birth in June 2017.Sign up to receive daily headline news from Ottawa Citizen, a division of Postmedia Network Inc.By clicking on the sign up button you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. You may unsubscribe any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link at the bottom of our emails or any newsletter. Postmedia Network Inc.
China sends pandas abroad as a sign of goodwill but maintains ownership over the animals and any cubs they produce. The animals are native to southwestern China and are an unofficial national mascot. Mizuguchi said she first saw Xiang Xiang when she was recovering from health issues but has since gotten better. “I wanted to express my appreciation to Xiang Xiang,” Mizuguchi said. “I’m certain she will be an idol in China too and I hope she serves the friendship between our two countries.”
Despite strained political ties between Japan and China, pandas have connected people in both countries and contributed to the friendship, Japanese fans say. But there is one more day before her departure, and, “as zoo keepers, we will fulfill our responsibility and do utmost to safely send her to China,” he said.