New pair of giant pandas destined for Hong Kong, expected to foster next generation

(ECNS)-- The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, John Lee, announced on Tuesday that the National Forestry and Grassland Administration had selected a pair of giant pandas to be sent to Hong Kong.

Lee, who is currently visiting southwest China’s Sichuan Province, revealed that the pandas, aged between 5 and 8 years, are in prime and adulthood, and are in robust health. The male panda weighs approximately 120 kilograms and is intelligent and active, while the female weighs about 100 kilograms and has a gentle temperament.

He said the pair is expected to arrive in Hong Kong before the National Day on Oct. 1.

Lee hopes that the pandas will give birth to the next generation in Hong Kong.

He announced on the occasion of the 27th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland on July 1 that the city would welcome the new pair of pandas.