By Noemie Olive

PARIS (Reuters) -Giant pandas Huan Huan and Yuan Zi, star attractions at France’s Beauval Zoo, will head to retirement in China next month, leaving behind twins born during a 13-year stay intended to strengthen diplomatic ties.

Keeper Delphine Pouvreau, who has cared for them since their arrival in 2012, says she’s cherishing every moment that remains before their departure, which was prompted by Huan Huan’s kidney problems.

“They’re very special animals,” she told Reuters before the pandas go into quarantine ahead of the trip, saying she had formed a strong attachment to them from the start.

“We’ll take care of them every day and, above all, make sure they are well during this period … And of course, we’re really going to make the most of our time with them before they

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