The revival of China's "panda diplomacy" in Hong Kong has elicited a blend of enthusiasm and contention among international observers and dedicated panda enthusiasts within China. China's decision to dispatch giant pandas to prominent U.S. zoos such as the San Diego Zoo and the National Zoo in Washington signifies a revival of a long-standing strategy aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties and projecting Chinese soft power on a global scale.

However, not all factions in China support this initiative. A vocal online community of panda aficionados, comparable to fervent followers of celebrities, has voiced strong opposition. Their concerns center on perceived risks to the welfare of pandas sent abroad, citing unverified fears of mistreatment in foreign zoological settings. Some critics couch their dissent in nationalist terms, viewing panda diplomacy as a potential concession or demonstration of vulnerability amid strained U.S.-China relations across multiple geopolitical fronts.

The debate gained momentum following the unexpected death of Le Le, a male panda at the Memphis Zoo, triggering widespread skepticism and outcry among Chinese internet users regarding the treatment of pandas overseas. Despite assertions by both Chinese and U.S. authorities refuting allegations of mistreatment, lingering tensions persist, with calls from certain quarters in China to suspend the panda diplomacy initiative entirely.

Nevertheless, China remains steadfast in its commitment to panda diplomacy as a cornerstone of its soft power strategy. Recent agreements to send pandas to zoos in Spain, Austria, and Australia underscore China's ongoing efforts to leverage the global appeal of pandas, which serve not only as cultural envoys but also as symbols of China's dedication to conservation and national pride.

Simultaneously, within China, pandas continue to captivate millions through dedicated online communities devoted to individual pandas like He Hua, cultivating virtual fan bases akin to those of celebrities. These communities organize around daily engagements, live-streaming events, and offline initiatives aimed at promoting panda welfare and bolstering their public image.

Despite enduring controversies and impassioned debates, the enduring global fascination with pandas underscores their unique role in international diplomacy and cultural exchange, despite occasional discord among their most ardent advocates.