A research center was launched on June 7 in southwest China's Sichuan Province to improve research efforts directed at the protection of giant pandas and other endangered species.

The International Center for Giant Panda Conservation Biology is a joint project sponsored by the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base and the U.S.-based Global Cause Foundation.

The center will employ both domestic and international resources, technology and funds to tackle major threats endangering the survival and development of giant pandas and other endangered species.