The massive military parade in Beijing, organized to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and China’s liberation from Japanese occupation, did not only showcase military strength but also delivered a surprising episode between two world leaders.
A microphone placed near Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping captured the two discussing organ transplants and the possibility of humans living up to 150 years.
The conversation, later confirmed by Putin himself, was broadcast live by Chinese state television CCTV and reported by major international outlets such as Bloomberg, Reuters, and AP. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs chose not to comment.
As Putin and Xi walked side by side toward the podium in Tiananmen Square, Putin’s interpreter was heard saying in Chinese:
“Biotechnology is constantly advancing. Human organs can be transplanted endlessly. The longer you live, the younger you become — you might even achieve immortality.”
Xi Jinping replied:
“Some predict that in this century, people will be able to live up to 150 years. In the past, people rarely reached 70, but today, at 70, you are still a child.”
Meanwhile, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, walking just behind them, was seen smiling, though it was unclear whether he understood the subject of the conversation.
Moments later, the live broadcast cut the audio, focusing cameras on the parade panorama before the three leaders ascended the honorary platform in front of 50,000 spectators.
This unusual exchange adds an intriguing dimension to the increasingly close relationship between Russia, China, and North Korea, showcased publicly during this highly symbolic summit.
