From TIME · Chad de Guzman · · 2m
Can pandas still charm the world for China?
As China's power grows, its cuddly diplomacy faces skepticism from those focused on security and trade.
In brief
As China's power grows, its cuddly diplomacy faces skepticism from those focused on security and trade. Panda loans still generate goodwill but no longer sway major policy decisions in an era of geopolitical tension. Originally reported by TIME.
Xi's panda gift to Georgia
Chinese President Xi Jinping announced during his U.S. state visit that two giant pandas from Chengdu would be loaned to Zoo Atlanta in Georgia, continuing a decades-old diplomatic tradition.
“It's like Messi cutting inside. You know it's coming. You're getting those pandas, and you'll like it.”
How panda diplomacy began
The practice started in 1972 after President Nixon's historic trip to China, symbolizing a new chapter in U.S.-China relations. China shifted from gifting to leasing pandas in 1984 as populations dwindled.
Pandas signal China's relationships
A country's panda presence reflects its ties with Beijing. Japan returned two pandas in January amid Taiwan tensions, marking the first time since 1972 it had none. The U.S. saw panda cubs returned in 2010 after Obama met the Dalai Lama.
“No other animal has been turned into a symbol to the extent that pandas have been.”
Georgia's pro-China stance rewarded
Zoo Atlanta received the pandas partly because Georgia maintained economic ties with China when most Republican states turned negative. Xi's gift rewards the state's consistent pro-China policy.
Charm fades as China's power grows
As China transformed into a superpower, its aggressive actions became more visible and fresh in people's minds. Experts say cuddly panda imagery no longer works when national security concerns dominate.
“The image of the pandas as soft, friendly, and cuddly, they don't work today because a lot of China's aggressive actions now are a lot more visible.”
Americans want concrete action
A 2026 survey found only 28% of U.S. adults said pandas would improve their view of China, while far more wanted cooperation on fentanyl precursors and trade restrictions.
Animal rights groups object
Conservationists argue pandas should not be used as geopolitical pawns. A Korean animal rights group condemned panda loans, saying the creatures are not meant for human entertainment or interstate friendship.
“Pandas are not beings born for human entertainment or interstate friendship.”
Pandas sustain goodwill, not policy
Panda diplomacy's strongest role is sustaining public goodwill and cooperation opportunities in relationships otherwise defined by disputes. Affection for pandas does not automatically translate into support for Chinese government policies.
The big picture
Panda loans still generate goodwill but no longer sway major policy decisions in an era of geopolitical tension.
