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News: China’s golden snub-nosed monkey debuted at European zoos on 10-year loans, signalling a potential successor to “panda diplomacy.’
About ‘Panda Diplomacy’
- China’s use of giant pandas as a diplomatic tool, gifting or loaning them to other countries to foster goodwill and enhance its global image.
- Historical roots: The practice dates back to the Tang Dynasty (7th-10th centuries CE) but was revitalized in the 20th century.
- Modern origin: 1972 is considered the start of modern panda diplomacy, when China gifted pandas to the US after President Nixon’s visit.
- Shift from gifting to loaning:
- In 1984, China switched from gifting pandas to loaning them.
- In this arrangement through the China Wildlife Conservation Association, part of the money that an overseas zoo pays annually to China must be earmarked for habitat conservation or scientific research to benefit the species.
- Beyond soft diplomacy: It is a multifaceted strategic tool that combines cultural appeal with concrete diplomatic and economic objectives.
- Lessons for India: India can use its native wildlife (e.g., Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros) as a soft power tool, but with an awareness of the potential risks and ethical considerations.
About Golden Snub-nosed Monkey
- They are rare, charismatic monkeys unique to the frigid mountains of central China.
- The golden snub-nosed monkey is known for its golden-orange fur, blue face, and thick coat adapted to cold climates.
- It is being positioned as new “animal ambassadors” potentially a successor to China’s famous panda diplomacy.
- IUCN status: Endangered.
