Kathimerini

Beijing's decades-old practice of lending giant pandas to Washington as a symbol of goodwill is steadily losing its diplomatic weight, according to recent reporting by the Wall Street Journal and Greek outlet Kathimerini. With U.S.-China relations strained over trade, technology and security disputes, panda loans no longer carry the political warmth they once did. Commentators suggest the tradition has become a symbol of a broader chill between the two powers.

James Becket, an American lawyer and human rights advocate known for defending democracy and documenting political persecution, has died, prompting tributes in Greek media. Kathimerini marks his passing with a farewell piece recalling his career as a defender of democratic principles and opponents of authoritarian rule. Details of his age, cause of death and funeral arrangements were not given in the report.