President Xi Jinping said on Tuesday the relationship between China and the European Union is one of the most influential in the world.

His comment came as leaders in Beijing and Brussels exchanged congratulations on the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

Xi said healthy, stable China-EU ties will not only promote mutual achievements, but also "illuminate the world'.

He said he's ready to work with EU leaders to expand mutual openness, and properly handle frictions and differences.

The president added that Beijing and Brussels should safeguard fairness and justice, and oppose unilateral bullying.

The anniversary came as world markets faced uncertainty because of US tariffs.

The Foreign Ministry, meanwhile, said Beijing would welcome visits by European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Spokesman Lin Jian said China looks forward to working together with the EU to strengthen cooperation, properly handle differences and promote relations.

The ministry added that China and the European Parliament have decided to simultaneously and comprehensively lift restrictions on mutual exchanges. (Reporting by Xinhua)