Dr. Chalermchai Inspects Preparation for the Arrival of "New Giant Pandas" at Chiang Mai Zoo, Strengthening Thai-Chinese Friendship

On November 9, 2024, at 11:30 AM, Dr. Chalermchai Sri-on, Minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), along with Lieutenant Commander Sutham Rahong, Secretary of the Ministry, MNRE Permanent Secretary Mr. Jatuporn Buruspat, and senior MNRE executives, visited the construction site for a new panda exhibit. This exhibit will host a pair of new giant pandas, symbolizing Thai-Chinese goodwill and celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. They were warmly received at Chiang Mai Zoo by Mr. Attapon Srihayrun, Director General of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, along with Mr. Wuthichai Muangmun, Director of Chiang Mai Zoo, and other staff members.

During the visit, Dr. Chalermchai and his team toured the construction site, which spans 19 rai (about 7.5 acres), five times larger than the previous enclosure. He emphasized the need for thorough preparations to ensure the facility meets Chinese standards. The new exhibit must be spacious, welcoming, and enhanced in every aspect to accommodate tourists and serve as an educational resource for children, youth, and the general public. It will also function as a conservation area. The construction is expected to take 1.5 to 2 years, with a budget of 200 million baht from state funds. Regarding staff readiness, experienced personnel and researchers are prepared to care for the pandas, combining their existing knowledge with new skills. The zoo follows the Zoological Park's standard practice of maintaining a strong bond between caregivers and animals, with Chinese keepers accompanying the pandas during their initial stay in Thailand