Hot Mic Catches Xi, Putin Discussing How Science Could Extend Human Lifespan

Xi, Putin Caught on Hot Mic Discussing Science and Human Longevity.

In a rare hot mic moment in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin were overheard speculating about how advances in science could dramatically extend human life spans.

The exchange occurred as Xi and Putin, joined by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, walked a red carpet toward the viewing platform for a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Xi was heard noting that living to 70 was once considered rare but is now seen as commonplace. Putin replied animatedly, with an interpreter later translating his comments: “As biotechnology continues to develop, human organs will be transplanted, people will become younger, and perhaps even achieve immortality.”

At one point, a voice resembling Xi’s suggested that humans could live to 150 years within this century. A translator later summarized the discussion by saying forecasts project lifespans of up to 100 years.

The conversation, captured on a live video feed distributed by the parade media center, offered a glimpse into the leaders’ off-script musings amid the display of China’s military power. Later at a news conference, Putin confirmed Xi had raised the subject, adding that modern medical technologies and organ transplants are giving humanity new reasons to expect longer, more active lives.