China Daily reported that BHP Billiton Limited lobbied Australia 2008 to stop Aluminum Corporation of China's proposed USD 19.5 billion investment in Rio Tinto Group.

The newspaper said that BHP executives including Chairman Mr Don Argus met officials including Australia PM Mr Kevin Rudd and Treasurer Mr Wayne Swan to discuss the proposed investment.

Rio Tinto rejected Chinalco's proposed deal in June in favor of a share sale and an iron ore JV with BHP.

(Sourced from China Daily)