Hong Kong panda lovers should be able to meet the new pair of giant pandas gifted by the central government by the end of December, while the twin pandas who were born at Ocean Park in August are due to make their first appearance early next year.
Revealing the news on Tuesday as the weekly Executive Council meeting resumed, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government and the mainland authorities have reached an agreement in principal on the arrival of the adult pandas, however, the exact date has not yet been confirmed.
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"My goal is that the pandas can arrive in Hong Kong by the end of September," Lee said.
He pointed out that quarantine, which may take around one month, is needed after the pandas’ arrival to ensure their safety, and the public may be able to see the pandas by the end of this year. Lee emphasized that specific arrangements will be made according to the experts' suggestion, as the pandas' safety remains top priority.
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The government announced on July 1 that the central government agreed to present another pair of giant pandas to Hong Kong. In previous years, two pairs of giant pandas had been given by the central government.
As for the city's first-ever locally born giant panda twins, Lee again emphasized the importance of asking for the experts' advice to ensure their safety, and it is estimated that the public can see them with the first quarter of 2025.
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The baby pandas — one female and one male — were born on August 15. Their parents – Ying Ying and Le Le were also given to the city by the central government.
