From pandas to precious stones: The hidden language of gift diplomacy

Gift diplomacy, a centuries-old practice, involves world leaders exchanging a variety of items such as statues, artworks, animals, and precious stones to showcase their country's culture, signal goodwill, and forge personal connections. In a recent display of this tradition, US President Donald Trump presented Chinese President Xi Jinping with a sculpture of a bald eagle, a symbol of North America and Washington's national emblem.

In return, Xi promised to gift two giant pandas to Zoo Atlanta, reviving China's long-standing tradition of using pandas as diplomatic gestures. The presentation of these gifts serves multiple purposes, including representing national identity, commemorating shared history, showcasing a country's culture, and signaling friendship or a thaw in relations.

At times, they can also carry a political or diplomatic message. Examples of such gifts include India's sculpture of the India Gate made of chocolate, and Belgium's gifting of an elephant to Japan. These gestures demonstrate the enduring importance of gift diplomacy in fostering international relationships.