Leaders Xi and Putin touch upon organ transplants and immortality in an unguarded conversation.
In a historic moment, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un gathered for a joint public appearance during a massive military parade in Beijing, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The event was livestreamed by state-run broadcaster CCTV and provided to other media organizations.
During their time on the rostrum at Tiananmen Square, Xi and Putin discussed the advancements in life expectancy and biotechnology. Putin referred to United Nations estimates predicting that by 2050, there will be more than twice as many people over 60 as children under 5. He mentioned the social, political, and economic consequences of this demographic shift, particularly in relation to life expectancy.
Xi, in turn, stated that some have predicted humans could potentially live up to 150 years by the end of this century. This sparked a conversation about the potential of biotechnology to extend human life, a topic that has been a focus for Putin's newly established anti-aging research center, "New Health Preservation Technologies." Putin's translator stated that with advances in biotechnology, people could potentially transplant human organs continuously, grow younger with age, and achieve immortality.
The conversation about life extension through biotechnology appeared to capture Kim Jong Un's interest. During the conversation, Kim Jong Un, believed to be 41, was also present but it was unclear whether the conversation was translated for him. He listened and smiled at his two allies, implying at least a tacit acknowledgment or interest.
In a subsequent interview, Putin confirmed the conversation with Xi, stating that they discussed modern health improvement and medical means, including organ replacement. Putin's confirmation came after he won a controversial referendum in 2020 to potentially stay in power until 2036, making him Russia's longest-serving ruler since Peter the Great if he serves the full term.
Meanwhile, Xi Jinping broke with China's long-standing tradition of changing leaders every decade when he was awarded a rare third term as president in 2023. This move was seen as a reflection of Xi's ambition to leave a lasting legacy, which may include his vision for human life extension through biotechnology.
Organ transplants in China remain a sensitive subject, with rights groups alleging that organs may still be harvested from executed prisoners despite government pledges to end the practice. In response to China's organ shortage, the Chinese government issued new rules in 2023 to address the issue, promoting public awareness and tightening regulation.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of an aging population, the conversation between Xi, Putin, and Kim Jong Un serves as a reminder of the potential role that biotechnology may play in shaping the future of human life and governance.
