Three golden monkeys will be sent to France to participate in a 10-year international exchange and cooperation project, according to the China Wildlife Conservation Association.

The association said that to strengthen international cooperation in the protection of golden monkeys, also known as snub-nosed monkeys, to promote the exchange of conservation techniques, and enhance management levels, the association signed the international cooperation research agreement on golden monkey conservation with France's Beauval Zoo on Wednesday in Shanghai.

According to the agreement, China will provide France with one male and two female golden monkeys. Any offspring born in France will return to China when they reach the age of 5. After the 10-year cooperation period ends, all the golden monkeys will be transported back to China. This arrangement is similar to the international exchange and cooperation agreements for giant pandas.

The Sichuan People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries noted that giant pandas and Sichuan golden monkeys coexist in the wild and are two major ecological symbols of China. They carry the cultural genes of peace, friendship, and harmony, embodying the Chinese philosophy of harmonious coexistence and serve as ambassadors of friendship.

Since the golden monkey was scientifically discovered by French naturalist Armand David in Baoxing county, Sichuan province, in 1869, it has not only deepened human understanding of biodiversity but also built a bridge of friendship between the people of China and France, the association said.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France. Earlier this month, the Chinese Giant Panda and Golden Monkey Art Exhibition was held in Paris following its debut in Beijing.