The first Golden Panda Awards is set to take place from September 19 to September 20 in Chengdu, the capital of China's Sichuan Province. The event will recognize excellence in four categories: Film, TV Dramas, Documentaries, and Animation. Our reporter Guo Tianqi talks to artists, to understand why the awards have been named after China's most loved and iconic animal.

GUO TIANQI Chengdu, Sichuan Province "Cute, fluffy, and absolutely adorable. Why do pandas seem to have so many fans around the world while at the same time, maintaining a unique connection to traditional Chinese culture? Follow me and my little guest (a panda toy) to find out."

The mascot of the Golden Panda Awards is a waving panda bear adorned with a golden rim, as if basking in the morning sun.

In Sichuan and beyond, many artistic accolades bear the panda's name, and Chengdu-based artist Xu Liaoyuan has been involved in the design of trophies many times.

XU LIAOYUAN Artist "The rarity and significance of pandas, globally recognized, represent a shared value. I believe that in future, panda art should explore more diverse, avant-garde avenues, and be open to every dimension of art."

The panda's distinctive black-and-white form represents the traditional Chinese philosophy and practice of "tai chi", symbolizing the harmonious coexistence of yin and yang. Such symbolism aligns with the Golden Panda Awards' mission of promoting a global community with a shared future.

Meng Fanzhuo, a young animation director, breathes life into different panda images, and aspires for greater success.

MENG FANZHUO Animation Director "The biting force of pandas is very strong, but they're vegetarian. This contrast is very cute, making people crazy for them. The technology of Chinese animation can now match international standards, and I definitely believe we're capable of creating world-class panda IP, like Kung Fu Panda."

The first Golden Panda Awards has attracted more than 7,000 films from more than 100 countries and regions, and ninety of them have been nominated. The winners will be announced on Wednesday. GUO TIANQI, CGTN, Chengdu, Sichuan Province.