Katyusha, Russia's First Born Panda, Marks Third Birthday in Moscow

Moscow Zoo hosted a festive celebration on Monday for Katyusha, the female giant panda who made history as the first of her species born in Russia. The event drew visitors eager to mark the occasion, with the zoo arranging a special program that included a traditional Chinese lion dance and a tea ceremony.

The celebration also served as a moment of diplomatic warmth. Chinese Ambassador to Moscow Zhang Hanhui attended the event and praised the care Katyusha has received, noting that the affection shown to the pandas reflects the strength of ties between China and Russia. "This sense of friendship brings our people much closer together," he said.

For many visitors, Katyusha holds a personal significance. Gleb Dudnik, a zoo visitor, expressed a common sentiment of attachment, saying he hopes she will not have to leave. He mentioned reading online that she is expected to return to China when she turns four. Another visitor, Natalia Balashova, said her daughter has followed Katyusha's growth since her birth and had dreamed of seeing her in person.

Moscow Zoo Director Svetlana Akulova expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the conservation program dedicated to the species. The zoo has played a key role in caring for the pandas, and the birthday event highlighted the public's strong interest in Katyusha's story.