BEIJING- BEIJING said it was eager on Tuesday to take part in a meeting next month of foreign ministers of the four so-called emerging BRIC nations, Brazil, Russia, India and China.

'China has a positive attitude towards taking part in the meeting,' foreign ministry spokesman Ma Zhaoxu told reporters.

'We believe China, Russia, India and Brazil are major emerging powers and are major forces in promoting the global economy. We share common views on many issues and we share the political will for dialogue and exchanges.'

Mr Ma refused to comment on reports that the June meeting in Russia's Yekaterinburg would be a summit of leaders of the four nations, instead saying the meeting would be between foreign ministers.

Preparations were ongoing and no formal agenda has been set, he added.

'We have an exchange of views on the global economy and developmental issues which is in the interest of the four countries,' Mr Ma said.

'The dialogue and cooperation among the four countries is transparent and open and is not aimed at any other country.' -- AFP