Hot Mic Catches Xi, Putin Discussing Science Extending Human Lifespan

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin were overheard discussing advances in science and the possibility of dramatically longer lifespans in a rare hot mic moment in Beijing on Wednesday.

The exchange, captured on a live news feed as the two leaders walked alongside North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to a military parade, began with Xi remarking that while living to 70 was once considered extraordinary, “now it’s said that you are still a child at 70.”

Putin responded animatedly, with his words later translated into Chinese: “In a few decades, as biotechnology continues to develop, human organs will continue to be transplanted and people will become younger and perhaps even achieve immortality.” Xi appeared to smile as he listened.

At one point, a voice resembling Xi’s could be heard predicting people may eventually live to 150 years, though it was unclear if the latter phrase came from him. A translator then added in Russian: “There are forecasts that in this world a person will live up to 100.”

Later at a press conference, Putin confirmed Xi had raised the subject of life expectancy. He said advances in medicine, organ transplants and surgical procedures give humanity reason to hope for longer, healthier lives.

The unusual exchange unfolded as Xi presided over a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, showcasing China’s fighter jets, missiles and military hardware.