The conference, opened by Chinese Culture Minister Sun Jiazheng, is being attended by delegations from some 60 countries.
The conference was also addressed by Croatian Culture Minister Bozo Biskupic, who underlined the importance of discussing the text of the new convention of cultural and artistic diversity.
Biskupic advocated "unity of diversity" and better understanding of culture, saying that new possibilities should be sought in communication and promotion of culture outside national borders.
The INCP brings together culture ministers and makes it possible for them to exchange their views every year.