Japan Set to Lose Last Pandas in Symbol of Icy China Ties

China will take back the remaining two pandas hosted by Japan next month, effectively halting a program that has symbolized friendship between the two countries since diplomatic ties were re-established in 1972.

The move comes with the Asian neighbors locked in a dispute following comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi last month on the possibility of a scenario in which Tokyo might dispatch its military if Beijing were to attempt to take control of Taiwan by force.