A Beijing parade livestream inadvertently aired Xi and Putin discussing biotechnology, organ transplants, and the possibility of human immortality.
A livestream of Beijing’s military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two captured an unexpected exchange between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
As the leaders, joined by North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, walked toward a viewing platform in Tiananmen Square, state television inadvertently aired their private discussion. Putin’s interpreter was overheard saying, “Biotechnology is continuously developing… Human organs can be continuously transplanted. The longer you live, the younger you become, and [you can] even achieve immortality.”
Xi responded off camera: “Some predict that in this century humans may live to 150 years old.”
Putin later confirmed the subject, telling reporters, “Modern means of health improvement, medical means, even surgical ones related to organ replacement, they allow humanity to hope that active life will continue differently than it does today.”
The parade showcased advanced missiles, drones, and robotic systems, while Putin and Xi also signed over 20 cooperation agreements.