French President Emmanuel Macron and China's Xi Jinping on Thursday pledged cooperation on a range of global issues, including efforts to end the war in Ukraine and trade.

Axar.az informs, citing France 24, Macron appealed to Xi to help end the war in Ukraine and tackle trade deficits as the two leaders met in Beijing's Great Hall on Thursday.

For Macron, making his fourth visit to China while in office, the three-day trip is an opportunity to shore up support for a ceasefire in Europe's deadliest conflict since WWII, as well as to attract more Chinese investment in France.

Xi and First Lady Peng Liyuan gave Macron and his wife Brigitte a grand, red-carpet welcome to the Chinese capital, complete with an honour guard and row of flag-waving children.

After the ceremony, Macron told Xi that France and China must overcome their "differences".

The Chinese leader echoed Macron, calling for "more stable" ties.

"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 capacity to work together is decisive."

"The conflict poses a vital threat to European security, but also to respect for the international order based on the rule of law," he said.

Xi stressed Beijing's support for a ceasefire.

"China supports all efforts committed to peace and hopes that all parties will reach a fair, lasting and binding peace agreement that is acceptable to all parties through dialogue and negotiation," he said.