The Thai Zoological Park Organization had already thrashed out an agreement with the Wildlife Conservation Association of China, but the Thai government had to ratify it. Mr Kaewkamnerd stated that the government had given the deal the green light and also authorised the zoo organisation to negotiate any future amendments on its own behalf.
Chuang Chuang and Lin Hui first arrived at Chiang Mai Zoo on a 10-year loan in October 2003. The duo soon became the zoo’s star attractions and even had their own TV channel. The male and female giant pandas came as part of a programme to breed the species in captivity.
Following artificial insemination, Lin Hui gave birth to a daughter, Lin Ping, in May 2009. Under the provisos of the original loan agreement, Lin Ping was sent to China in 2013 to mate. Negotiations are ongoing to secure her return.
Chiang Mai Zoo pandas get extension of stay
News in Asia
The Thai government last week said the two resident pandas at Chiang Mai Zoo would be staying for another eight years. Cabinet spokesperson Sansern Kaewkamnerd said the national zoo organisation had agreed terms with China to lengthen the giant pandas’ stay in Thailand until 2023.