Two pandas from China safely arrive at the San Diego Zoo as part of conservation project

Two giant pandas arrived at the San Diego Zoo on Friday, as part of an ongoing conservation program with China that seeks to protect the vulnerable species. 

The United States and China have had a conservation partnership for more than 30 years, which started with the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, according to Axios. The two pandas are the first to travel to the U.S. in 21 years.

The San Diego alliance said the two bears, named Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, will need to spend the coming weeks away from the public while they acclimate to their new home.

“They are being monitored closely by expert wildlife health and care teams who will determine when the pair are ready to meet the public,” the alliance said, per the Associated Press.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria celebrated the new arrivals in a post to social media, which comes after he visited China for a farewell party for the bears earlier this week.

"This is a significant step in panda conservation efforts and a thrilling addition to our city," Gloria posted to X of the new arrivals. 

Giants pandas are also expected to arrive at the San Francisco zoo and the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., later this year.