CHENGDU, Oct. 28 (Xinhua) -- Giant panda on Saturday was named an "Asia Game Changer" in southwest China's Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding by the Asia Society for its role played in promoting friendly relationships between countries.

As a unique species of China, the giant panda symbolizes peace and friendship, said Tom Nagorski, Executive Vice President of the Asia Society, adding China's cooperation with other countries in giant panda breeding also helped promote friendships.

Tan Hongming, an official of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, said that the award acknowledged the research base's efforts in protecting the species and it will further encourage other institutions in giant panda protection.

The Asia Game Changer Awards were launched by the Asia Society in 2014,which recognize those making a transformative and positive difference for the future of Asia and the world.