Panda pair makes debut with rousing welcome

San Diego Zoo's new residents represent common humanity, aspirations for friendship and exchanges, officials say

The city of San Diego is "Pan-Diego" again with a new pair of giant pandas having made their public debut recently.

Yun Chuan, a 5-year-old male, and Xin Bao, a 4-year-old female, were the first pandas to be sent to the United States in more than two decades, attracting thousands of visitors and much media attention.

California Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed Aug 8 as California Panda Day. Newsom was at the San Diego Zoo on Thursday to attend the opening of the newly expanded Panda Ridge — Yun Chuan and Xin Bao's new home.