Russia has become only the 18th country in the world to host giant pandas. This is after China gifted the country two of the cuddly creatures. Moscow Zoo held an official opening ceremony of the panda enclosure, which was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The handing over of the pandas marks the start of a 15 year joint research programme between the two countries. Giant pandas have historically been gifted by China to strengthen political ties with another country.

Report by Lily Thomas.

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