China has indicated its willingness to continue negotiations with Thailand on a new giant panda for Chiang Mai Zoo following the recent passing of Lin Hui, which had been the beloved star attraction at the zoo for two decades.
Atthaporn Srihayrun, Director of the Zoological Parks Organisation, confirmed that an autopsy conducted by the Giant Panda Research and Conservation Center in China’s Sichuan province found that Thailand had provided exceptional care to Lin Hui, surpassing the required standards throughout her stay at Chiang Mai Zoo.
The autopsy, jointly conducted by the Thai Forest Department and the Giant Panda Research and Conservation Center, concluded that Lin Hui’s passing was due to old age, dispelling any lingering doubts regarding the cause of her death. Atthaporn noted that China’s statement can be interpreted as a signal that negotiations for another panda are not off the table, emphasizing that any such discussions would need to occur at the government level.
Despite the autopsy findings, Thailand remains obligated to compensate China with 15 million baht for the loss of Lin Hui. The panda was initially sent to Chiang Mai Zoo on October 12th, 2003, serving as a goodwill ambassador between the two nations.
Atthaporn further revealed that an animal of equal rarity and value would eventually inhabit Lin Hui’s enclosure at Chiang Mai Zoo.
As Thailand and China maintain a positive and ongoing relationship in wildlife conservation, hope remains for the acquisition of a new giant panda to continue promoting bilateral cooperation and enhancing bilateral conservation efforts. (NNT)
