Chinese President Xi Jinping finds himself at the center of a controversy following his remark about living until 150 years of age, a comment now forbidden from being aired. The ban resulted in widespread discussions in Japan concerning censorship and the freedom of speech. The timing of this incident remains inconvenient as it comes amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

Japanese society, with its high regard for freedom of expression and press freedom, has reacted to the news with concern and interest. The incident has triggered discussions about the control of information and media censorship in China, which contrasts strongly with Japan's liberal democratic values.

In societies like the US or the EU, such incidents would also provoke debates about freedom of speech and press rights. The essence of democracy allows for such freedom, going against any institutionalized censorship. The unwarranted censorship would likely be criticized heavily, taking into account democratic norms and practices upheld in these societies.