CCTV9英语新闻12月：美华盛顿国家动物园新生熊猫满百天 取名宝宝（在线收听）

By CCTV reporter Cui Lingnan

After waiting 100 days, the new baby panda at the U.S. National Zoo In Washington finally has her new name---Baobao. She is also the first baby panda to be blessed by both of the first ladies of China and the US.

After waiting 100 days, the new baby panda at the U.S. National Zoo In Washington finally has her new name---Baobao.

She was pretty loud at birth, and got louder as she grew.

Following Chinese tradition, when the cub reaches 100 days old, a name is given. She charmed both the first ladies of China and the United States, who sent her birthday wishes.

"Happy 100 days to the baby panda. May the friendship between the Chinese and American people grow even stronger." Chinese first lady Peng Liyuan said.

"We are thrilled to welcome this little cub, a cub who exemplifies both the common bond between our nations and the bright future of this magnificent species. It’s a little too much for a little bear, but I think she’s ready for it." US first lady Michelle Obama said.

Chinese ambassador to the U.S. Cui Tiankai explains why 100 days is so important in Chinese culture.

"It symbolizes that the baby will grow up in happiness and good health and will live over 100 years. So it is the time when a baby is officially named." Cui said.

The name "Baobao" was chosen after receiving more than 123,000 votes online from the public. Baobao is the second successful birth of mother Meixiang at the Smithsonian National Zoo. Many panda lovers gathered for the special day.

Reporter: "We are going to wait a couple of months for Baobao’s debut to the public. By then, people can have the chance to greet her with her new name. Meanwhile, we can watch her grow through live cameras."