Latest news with #Panda-themed
Daily Mirror
12-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
Thousands left weeping as China strips Japan of beloved pandas in unusual move
In an emotional outpouring, thousands descended upon the Japanese town to catch one last tender moment with the pandas at Adventure World Zoo before they journeyed back to China Large crowds in Japan were left in tears after China summoned the return of four beloved pandas - announcing that the animals would not return. In an emotional outpouring, thousands descended upon the Japanese town to catch one last moment with the pandas at Adventure World Zoo before they journeyed back to China. These endearing pandas, having been born and raised in Japan, became star attractions at Adventure World Zoo, welcoming droves of visitors each year. Since 1994, China has graced Japan with these popular creatures, but this year Beijing has put an abrupt halt to the initiative, summoning back Rauhin, age 24, along with her daughters Yuihin, 8; Saihin, 6; and Fuhin, 4. With no forthcoming panda exchanges on the horizon, thousands have clamoured to visit the cuddly quartet for the final time on June 27. Visibly moved, Shiori Sakurai told CNN: "Being here brought back so many memories. And I realised, I really don't want them to go. Let's meet again, OK? I'll keep loving you every single day." For Mihoko Ninomiya, frequent visits to see the charming pandas were treasured family outings she enjoyed with her daughter and granddaughter. Speaking of the significance the pandas held, she said: "We've been coming here since my daughter was a little girl," lamenting, "We will miss them terribly." An influx of affectionate glances has swept across "Panda Town" as admirers thronged to catch a sight of their cherished pandas relishing their bamboo or frolicking in their habitats. Shirahama, nestled along Japan's southern coastline, is reeling from the impact of the pandas' departure, marking a profound loss for the community. The town's 20,000 residents have seen a significant economic uplift thanks to the pandas. Panda-themed goods are ubiquitous, from shops to public transport and eateries, with the town raking in an estimated $870 million from panda-related tourism over the last 30 years, according to Kansai University's Professor Emeritus of Economics, Katsuhiro Miyamoto. Without these beloved animals, the town faces a potential loss of $41 million annually, which is a staggering 40% of its yearly budget, Miyamoto explained to CNN. An estimated 200,000 tourists could vanish each year, potentially driving locals to seek employment elsewhere. Local business owners, heavily dependent on the influx of panda enthusiasts, are contemplating whether to continue selling their panda-themed products. "We haven't really decided whether we'll gradually phase them out or keep them as 'panda memory,'" admitted one souvenir shop owner. While the exact reasons for China's recall of the pandas remain uncertain, some speculate it may be politically motivated. Masaki Ienaga, Associate Professor of International Relations at Tokyo Woman's Christian University, suggests the recall might be linked to Shirahama electing Yasuhiro Oe, known for his pro-Taiwan views, possibly irking China. When questioned about the decision, China's Foreign Ministry reiterated that Taiwan's status is "purely China's internal affairs." "Some Japanese politicians should be mindful of the lessons of history... and be cautious in their words and deeds on the Taiwan issue," it said. Despite still housing two pandas at Tokyo's Ueno Zoo, China has also decided to terminate its lease next year.
Malaysia Sun
02-07-2025
- Malaysia Sun
Hong Kong marks 28th anniversary of return to motherland in unity, joy
Festivities unfolded across all 18 districts, featuring hundreds of vibrant celebrations that attracted both locals and tourists, immersing themselves in the lively spirit of the Pearl of the Orient. HONG KONG, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Hong Kong was filled with a festive and harmonious atmosphere on Tuesday on the 28th anniversary of its return to the motherland. Throughout the streets, the national flag of the People's Republic of China and the flag of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) fluttered. Festivities unfolded across all 18 districts, featuring hundreds of vibrant celebrations that attracted both locals and tourists, immersing themselves in the lively spirit of the Pearl of the Orient. At 8 a.m., the HKSAR government held a flag-raising ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, followed by a reception at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, gathering dignitaries from various sectors. "As long as we are determined to fully seize the opportunities, keep enhancing our value and competitiveness, undertake reforms for progress and foster innovation, I am confident the wisdom and experience of the people of Hong Kong will help our Pearl of the Orient shine brighter than ever on the world stage," HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee said when addressing the reception. Earlier that morning, the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR, the Office for Safeguarding National Security, the Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, and the Hong Kong Garrison of the Chinese People's Liberation Army also held flag-raising ceremonies. Educational institutions across Hong Kong, including the Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK), also held flag-raising ceremonies. EdUHK's president believed that "the flag-raising ceremony is the best lesson in patriotism." As the sun rose, Hong Kong's iconic Victoria Harbour buzzed with celebrations. The waterfront promenade was bustling with visitors, many waving national and SAR flags in the refreshing sea breeze, creating waves of red. A three-day event at Victoria Park featured a popular Panda-themed exhibition, showcasing a two-meter-tall panda sculpture surrounded by 100 smaller ones, drawing visitors eager to capture the moment. Mr. Cheng, a local resident in his seventies, snapped dozens of photos, expressing his fondness for pandas. "I came specifically to take pictures. Later, I plan to hop on the free tram to Central, where the celebrations will continue," he told Xinhua. In addition to parades and variety shows, the HKSAR government and local businesses offered special promotions across transportation, culture, and dining, allowing people to celebrate the anniversary together. Free tram rides, free Star Ferry rides, and MTR lottery electronic tickets were also available. Throughout the day, numerous recreational and cultural businesses provided free or discounted activities. Shopping malls and stores offered free ice cream, popcorn, and panda balloons. Over 4,100 restaurants provided discounts, more than in previous years. By 10:30 a.m., people were already queuing at the piers for the Star Ferry. Chiang, waiting with her child, told Xinhua, "I brought my child to see the flag-raising. Watching the helicopter fly by with national and SAR flags makes me emotional." She hoped her daughter would cherish her love for the motherland, wherever she lives. Across Hong Kong, various groups shared their blessings for the motherland and Hong Kong. A flotilla of 28 fishing boats, displaying national and SAR flags, cruised through Victoria Harbour, attracting crowds eager to watch and photograph the event. At the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, a flash mob performing patriotic songs drew many listeners and inspired a spontaneous sing-along. A horse race at Sha Tin Racecourse amplified the festive atmosphere, drawing about 24,500 spectators. Some hailed the event as a celebration of Hong Kong's unique charm and vitality. Lyu Wenxin from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology said that she would work for Hong Kong's prosperity.
