Two giant pandas have departed from China for a zoo in Atlanta, the latest to be dispatched as part of Beijing’s long-held “panda diplomacy”.

China’s Xi Jinping announced during his state visit to the U.S. that two new pandas would arrive soon at a zoo in Atlanta.

Two giant pandas have left China on a flight bound for their new home at a zoo in Atlanta, the latest emissaries in Beijing’s long tradition of

China sent two giant pandas to the United States on Sunday, state media said, after a Washington summit that was heavy on symbolism and light on major breakthroughs.

The history of 'panda diplomacy' between the two sides dates back over half a century. The first pair of giant pandas ever seen in the United States, Ling Ling and Hsing Hsing, arrived at the National Zoo in April 1972 as a gift from the Chinese government, just a few months after then-President Richard Nixon's ice-breaking visit to China.

Giant pandas around the world have been marking their birthdays with special treats, toys and plenty of attention from their keepers.