Hong Kong welcomes two giant pandas from China
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The pair of young pandas, named “Le Le” and “Ying Ying,” arrived safely in Hong Kong. |
The pair of giant pandas presented by the Central People’s Government (CPG) to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) arrived safely in Hong Kong on April 26 from Wolong, Sichuan. The Home Affairs Bureau of the HKSAR Government held a handover ceremony in celebration of their arrival.
The young male cub was officially named “Le Le” and the female cub “Ying Ying,” their names signifying a prosperous and joyful Hong Kong, with a thriving economy.
Secretary for Home Affairs Patrick Ho and leader of the State Forestry Administration Zhao Xuemin signed a handover certificate, marking the official transfer of the giant pandas to the HKSAR.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Ho expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the CPG in giving a pair of young giant pandas to Hong Kong, after giving An An and Jia Jia in 1999.
“This fully demonstrates the love and support of the CPG for Hong Kong. I wish to express sincere thanks to the CPG on behalf of the Hong Kong SAR Government and all the people of Hong Kong,” said Dr. Ho.
Dr. Ho thanked Mr. Zhao for leading a delegation to attend the handover ceremony. Technical experts of his delegation also worked on the final preparations for the arrival of the giant pandas.
Dr. Ho was highly appreciative of the efforts of the relevant government departments and Ocean Park in ensuring the success of the entire transportation arrangements for the animals, adding that they had worked closely throughout the process.
After arriving at Hong Kong, the giant pandas were immediately transported to Ocean Park, where they are quarantined.
Dr. Ho explained that the cubs would need time to get used to their new environment. “Subject to experts’ advice on their conditions, the giant pandas will meet the public starting from July 1. Everyone is then welcome to visit this pair of national treasures,” he said.
The Home Affairs Bureau will maintain close ties with Ocean Park during the pandas’ two-month quarantine and adaptation period, and will provide updates to the public.
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