While culture and art have different manifestations, they can transmit similar experiences to people in different countries, Xi said, adding that different cultures can coexist in harmony.

Macron thanked Xi and Peng for the warm and considerate arrangements, saying that Shanghai is an amazing place where he could see China's opening-up and its future.

France and China have splendid civilizations and both countries advocate the spirit of inclusiveness and mutual learning among different cultures, he said.

He said he expected his state visit to be a success and inject new meaning into the future development of the France-China relationship.

After the meeting, the two couples also watched performances of Kun Opera and Yueju Opera.