TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei City Government will lead a delegation to Shanghai for the 2025 Twin Cities Forum (2025雙城論壇) on Dec. 27-28. This year's event will also include a visit to Shanghai Zoo's (上海動物園) red panda habitat as Taipei Zoo (台北市立動物園) plans to exchange a pair of African penguins for a pair of red pandas early next year.
Representatives from Shanghai Zoo already visited Taipei Zoo to assess the living environment and prepare for the animal exchange last month. Before the animals leave the zoo, both parties must meet the quarantine conditions set by the receiving side. Whether these quarantine conditions will be part of the agenda for negotiation at this year forum remains uncertain. The animals are expected to arrive in Taiwan in the first half of next year after completing quarantine.
Last December, the Twin Cities Forum in Taipei saw the signing of a memorandum of understanding for species exchange and conservation cooperation between Taipei Zoo and Shanghai Zoo. This agreement aims to establish a long-term partnership through the exchange of animals. To ensure effective collaboration, the zoos must carefully discuss and implement practical aspects, including establishing efficient communication channels like email and phone calls. Both sides will also exchange insights on population management, animal care, and medical details for red pandas and African penguins.
