Aluminum Corporation of China (Chinalco), the world's second largest producer of alumina, says it is willing to further discuss cooperation over bauxite and alumina production with global miner Rio Tinto.

The move indicates an easing of tensions between the two companies.

"Chinalco is still willing to explore the possibility of cooperation with Rio Tinto," said Zhao Zhengang, director of Chinalco's Overseas Exploration Department, in response to comments by Rio Tinto's chief financial officer Guy Elliott.