A rather unusual conversation between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian leader Vladimir Putin stole the spotlight during a military parade in Beijing on Wednesday.

Their voices, picked up by a live microphone and relayed by CCTV, revealed the pair musing about organ transplants, immortality, and whether humans might one day live up to 150 years.

As they strolled alongside North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Xi was heard saying, “In the past, people rarely lived to be 70. But today, they say at 70, you’re still a child.”

Putin quickly added, “People can keep getting organ transplants,” before suggesting that advances in biotechnology might make it possible for humans to not only live longer but even achieve immortality.

Xi responded by noting that some experts predict life spans could reach 150 years this century.

Putin Confirms the Chat

Later, Putin confirmed to reporters that the private chat did happen while the leaders were heading to the parade grounds. He explained that breakthroughs in medical science and surgical procedures give humanity hope of extending active life beyond today’s limits.

Public Reaction in China

The hot mic moment stirred conversations across China, but not without restrictions. The Washington Post reported that searches for “150 years” were censored on Weibo, though discussions continued to spread on other platforms. Some companies even seized the moment to advertise their health services.

Interestingly, Chinese state media had in the past floated similar predictions, suggesting that rapid progress in health and technology might one day stretch human lifespans to 150 years.

What Happened at the Parade

The exchange unfolded during a parade marking 80 years since the end of World War II. Xi, Putin, and Kim stood with over 20 world leaders as China displayed its military strength.

The event featured thousands of troops and cutting-edge weapons, including hypersonic missiles, naval drones, and AI-powered anti-drone tanks.

At 72, both Xi and Putin represent nations tied by what they once described as a “no limits partnership” — a relationship seen as countering U.S.-led global influence. Yet their unscripted musings on longevity and immortality proved that even at a tightly choreographed state occasion, a candid remark can easily steal the headlines.