Giant Pandas “An An” and “Ke Ke” Arrive in Hong Kong for Conservation Efforts
A significant event took place on Thursday morning as a cargo plane carrying two giant pandas, “An An” and “Ke Ke,” arrived in Hong Kong from Chengdu. The arrival of these beloved pandas marks a significant moment in conservation efforts and signifies the strong bond between Chengdu and Hong Kong in protecting these endangered species.
A Warm Welcome Ceremony
A warm welcome ceremony was held in front of the aircraft at the airport to greet the two pandas upon their arrival. Chief Secretary Eric Chan, tourism and culture minister Kevin Yeung, and Ocean Park chairman Paulo Pong were among the dignitaries present at the event. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation as the pandas made their first appearance in Hong Kong.
Chief Secretary Eric Chan expressed his enthusiasm for the arrival of the giant pandas, stating, “Ever since the chief executive announced in July that the central government was again gifting pandas to the region, like all citizens, I felt very excited. We look forward to the two energetic and cute giant pandas joining the Hong Kong family.” The support and enthusiasm from the government officials and the public reflect the importance of conservation efforts for these beloved animals.
Gratitude for Conservation Efforts
During the ceremony, Chief Secretary Eric Chan also expressed his gratitude to all those who played a role in transferring the pandas to Hong Kong. He thanked the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office of the State Council, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda, and the government of Sichuan province for their efforts in ensuring the safe arrival of the pandas.
“It has fully demonstrated the central government’s love and support towards the region, and affirms our work in conserving, caring, and rearing giant pandas. It means a lot to Hong Kong,” Chan emphasized. The collaborative efforts of various organizations and government entities highlight the importance of international cooperation in wildlife conservation.
Health Checks and Quarantine
Before disembarking from the aircraft, the pandas underwent thorough health checks conducted by staff from Ocean Park and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. The well-being of the pandas is of utmost importance, and these health checks ensure that the pandas are in good condition upon their arrival in Hong Kong.
Following the health checks, the pair will be placed in quarantine at Ocean Park for a month. This quarantine period is essential to ensure that the pandas are acclimated to their new environment and remain healthy throughout their stay in Hong Kong. Chief Secretary Eric Chan expressed his hopes for the pandas’ well-being, stating, “I hope the pandas grow healthily in Hong Kong and bring more happiness and warmth to the public.”
In conclusion, the arrival of giant pandas “An An” and “Ke Ke” in Hong Kong signifies a significant milestone in conservation efforts and highlights the importance of international cooperation in protecting endangered species. The warm welcome ceremony, gratitude for conservation efforts, and focus on the pandas’ health and well-being reflect the dedication and commitment of all involved in ensuring the safety and preservation of these beloved animals.