Just weeks before US President Donald Trump’s planned visit to Beijing next month, China is sending two giant pandas to Atlanta in what observers describe as a “goodwill gesture” amid persistent tensions that range from trade to broader security issues.The China Wildlife Conservation Association said on Friday that male panda Ping Ping and female Fu Shuang would travel to the US under a 10-year conservation agreement signed with Zoo Atlanta last year.Chinese state media, including the Global Times, framed the announcement as extending the “panda bond” between the Chinese and American people and advancing biodiversity cooperation.09:52How do China’s panda loans work and how has panda diplomacy evolved? Zoo Atlanta announced the news on Thursday, noting that both pandas were born at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.“Zoo Atlanta is delighted and honoured to yet again be trusted as stewards of this treasured species,” Raymond King, the zoo’s president and CEO, was quoted as saying in a statement on its website. King noted that the zoo was pleased to partner with the China wildlife association on conservation and research.“We can’t wait to meet Ping Ping and Fu Shuang and to welcome our members, guests, city and community back to the wonder and joy of giant pandas.”Of the agreement, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said “giant pandas are China’s national treasure, serving as an ambassador and bridge for global friendships”.