French President Emmanuel Macron told Xi Jinping that France and China must overcome their "differences", as the two leaders met in Beijing on Thursday.
"Sometimes there are differences, but it is our responsibility to overcome them for the greater good," Macron told Xi during the meeting.
The Chinese leader echoed Macron, calling for "more stable" ties with France during their talks at the Great Hall of the People.
Xi said China was willing to work with France "to exclude any interference" and "make the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and France more stable".
Top of Macron's agenda during his three-day visit to China is the issue of Ukraine and the role Beijing could play in securing a ceasefire.
"We must continue to work towards peace and stability in the world, and in Ukraine and other regions affected by war," Macron told Xi, adding: "Our ability to work together is crucial."
The French president also urged more investment to rebalance trade ties, and called on Xi to work with G7 countries for rules-based economic governance.
