China and Thailand have come together to discuss the future of their giant panda cooperation program, in the wake of the recent passing of Lin Hui, a beloved 21-year-old giant panda at Chiang Mai Zoo. The memorial event, held in Chiang Mai, was attended by members of the Chinese Consulate General, the governor of Chiang Mai, the zoo’s director, and individuals from various sectors in the city.
Wu Zhiwu, the Chinese Consul General in Chiang Mai province, commended the progress made by both countries in the past two decades, which has included work on giant panda rearing, breeding, disease control, and public education. Lin Hui, who arrived at Chiang Mai Zoo in 2003 on loan with her mate, was a vital symbol of goodwill between China and Thailand, and the mother of Lin Bing, Thailand’s first giant panda cub, born in 2009.
Despite Lin Hui’s passing, both countries expressed their appreciation for the program’s success and pledged to continue their collaboration on giant panda conservation efforts. Visitors left white flowers and notes of condolences on a message wall, while a large photo of Lin Hui was on display, along with life-size cutouts of the giant panda.
Chiang Mai Zoo Director Wuthichai Muangman expressed his sadness at the loss of Lin Hui and her significance as a symbol of the close relationship between China and Thailand. He also conveyed his gratitude for China’s support and understanding of the cooperation program. Lin Hui’s death marks the end of an era, as she was the only remaining giant panda in Thailand following the return of Lin Bing to China in 2011 and the death of her mate, Chuang Chuang, in 2019. However, both countries remain committed to the continuation of their giant panda cooperation program.