As a unique species of China, the giant panda symbolizes peace and friendship, said Tom Nagorski, Executive Vice-President of the Asia Society, adding China's cooperation with other countries in giant panda breeding also helped promote friendships.

Tan Hongming, an official of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, said that the award acknowledged the research base's efforts in protecting the species and it will further encourage other institutions in giant panda protection.