Brazil and geopolitical relations in the context of the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic CorridorAbstract
This article examines the geopolitical relations in the context of the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor, with a focus on the importance of Brazil and its implications for the countries involved and the region. The objective is to investigate the geopolitical implications of the project and the challenges and opportunities related to its implementation. The methodology adopted consisted of a three-stage literature research: literature review, analysis of collected data, and synthesis of results. The research results highlight Brazil's central position in the project as one of the main regional powers and its history of cooperation with neighboring countries. The Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor is considered a strategic project for commercial and logistical integration in South America, while also strengthening the bilateral relations between Brazil and Chile. The study also emphasizes Brazil's geopolitical significance in the context of the corridor, promoting regional integration and driving cooperation between Mercosur and the Pacific Alliance. The research concludes that the project's implementation depends on the continuity of international relations, overcoming geopolitical challenges, and implementing favorable public policies. To achieve this, Brazil needs to strengthen its relations with the countries involved and international organizations, seeking funding and support for project completion. The success of the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor will bring benefits such as increased regional integration, economic development, and political stability. Brazil plays a central role in this project, strengthening its position as a regional leader, expanding its trade relations, and consolidating its influence in Latin American foreign policy.
Keywords Geopolitics; Bi-Oceanic Corridor; Brazil; regional integration; cooperation
Resumo
Este artigo analisa as relações geopolíticas no contexto do Corredor Bioceânico Brasil-Chile, com ênfase na importância do Brasil e suas implicações para os países envolvidos e a região. O objetivo é investigar as implicações geopolíticas do projeto e os desafios e oportunidades relacionados à sua implementação. A metodologia adotada consistiu em uma pesquisa bibliográfica em três etapas: revisão bibliográfica, análise dos dados coletados e síntese dos resultados. Os resultados da pesquisa destacam a posição central do Brasil no projeto, como uma das principais potências regionais e seu histórico de cooperação com os países vizinhos. O Corredor Bioceânico Brasil-Chile é considerado um projeto estratégico para a integração comercial e logística na América do Sul, além de fortalecer as relações bilaterais entre Brasil e Chile. O estudo também destaca a importância geopolítica do Brasil no contexto do corredor, promovendo a integração regional e impulsionando a cooperação entre o Mercosul e a Aliança do Pacífico. A pesquisa conclui que a implementação do projeto depende da continuidade das relações internacionais, da superação de desafios geopolíticos e da implementação de políticas públicas favoráveis. Para isso, o Brasil precisa fortalecer suas relações com os países envolvidos e com organizações internacionais, buscando financiamento e apoio para a conclusão do projeto. O sucesso do Corredor Bioceânico Brasil-Chile trará benefícios como maior integração regional, desenvolvimento econômico e estabilidade política. O Brasil desempenha um papel central nesse projeto, fortalecendo sua posição como líder regional e ampliando suas relações comerciais, consolidando sua influência na política externa latino-americana.
Palavras-chave Geopolítica; Corredor Bioceânico; Brasil; integração regional; cooperação
Resumen
Este artículo analiza las relaciones geopolíticas en el contexto del Corredor Bioceánico Brasil-Chile, con énfasis en la importancia de Brasil y sus implicaciones para los países involucrados y la región. El objetivo es investigar las implicaciones geopolíticas del proyecto y los desafios y oportunidades relacionados con su implementación. La metodología adoptada consistió en una investigación bibliográfica en tres etapas: revisión bibliográfica, análisis de los datos recopilados y síntesis de los resultados. Los resultados de la investigación resaltan la posición central de Brasil en el proyecto, como una de las principales potencias regionales y su historial de cooperación con los países vecinos. El Corredor Bioceánico Brasil-Chile se considera un proyecto estratégico para la integración comercial y logística en América del Sur, además de fortalecer las relaciones bilaterales entre Brasil y Chile. El estudio también destaca la importancia geopolítica de Brasil en el contexto del corredor, promoviendo la integración regional e impulsando la cooperación entre el Mercosury la Alianza del Pacífico. La investigación concluye que la implementación del proyecto depende de la continuidad de las relaciones internacionales, la superación de desafíos geopolíticos y la implementación de políticas públicas favorables. Para lograrlo, Brasil debe fortalecer sus relaciones con los países involucrados y con organizaciones internacionales, buscando financiamiento y apoyo para la conclusión del proyecto. El éxito del Corredor Bioceánico Brasil-Chile traerá beneficios como una mayor integración regional, desarrollo económico y estabilidad política. Brasil desempeña un papel central en este proyecto, fortaleciendo su posición como líder regional, ampliando sus relaciones comerciales y consolidando su influencia en la política exterior latinoamericana.
Palabras clave Geopolítica; Corredor Bioceánico; Brasil; integración regional; cooperación
1 INTRODUCTION
Globalization has transformed the way nations relate to each other economically, especially regarding the circulation of goods and services between different regions of the world. However, physical connectivity remains a crucial factor for the economic and social development of many countries, particularly those located in peripheral regions of the globe. In this context, Bi-Oceanic Corridor s emerge as strategic alternatives for trade and logistical integration between countries that have favorable geographical locations.
The Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor is a project aimed at connecting the ports of Santos in Brazil and Iquique and Antofagasta in northern Chile through a network of highways and railways that will traverse the central region of South America. The initiative is considered one of the most important for regional integration and diversification of trade routes on the continent.
In addition to economic and logistical aspects, the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor also has important geopolitical implications for the countries involved and the region in which it is located. Cooperation between Brazil and Chile in this initiative can strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries while promoting greater integration between Mercosur and the Pacific Alliance, two of the main economic blocs in Latin America.
Given this scenario, it is important to understand how geopolitical relations are being shaped in the context of the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor and what are the main challenges and opportunities that arise with the implementation of this project. However, this article only analyzes Brazil's position within the project. This article aims to analyze the geopolitical relations in the context of the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor, highlighting the main implications for the countries involved and the region in which it is located.
The objective of this article is to investigate the geopolitical relations in the context of the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor, emphasizing the importance of Brazil and its implications for the countries involved and the region in which it is located. Additionally, it seeks to explore the challenges and opportunities related to the implementation of this project, considering diplomatic issues, mutual cooperation, and overcoming geopolitical obstacles that may affect its development.
The methodology used in this study was bibliographical in nature. The research was conducted in three distinct stages. In the first stage, a literature review was carried out to understand Brazil's geopolitical position and its importance to the region, considering factors such as its strategic geographical location, economy, political and cultural influence, as well as its relations with other countries. In the second stage, the collected data were analyzed to identify Brazil's relevance in the regional and global geopolitical context, taking into account factors such as its influence in international politics, participation in multilateral organizations, and involvement in trade agreements. Finally, in the third stage, the obtained results were synthesized and extensively discussed, addressing Brazil's importance for economic development and political stability in the region. In this stage, reflections were presented on Brazil's role as a global actor, its influence in bilateral and multilateral relations, as well as its capacity to promote regional integration and cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, and infrastructure.
This research, in addition to the introduction and conclusion, is organized into four topics that address Brazil's geopolitical relations in the context of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor. The first topic explores Brazil's position in the corridor's geopolitical context, highlighting its importance as one of the main regional powers and its tradition of cooperation with neighboring countries. The second topic analyzes the geopolitical challenges and opportunities for cooperation in the region, identifying latent factors among the corridor's countries. The third topic emphasizes Brazil's geopolitical importance in the context of the corridor, highlighting how the country can contribute to the process of regional integration. Finally, the fourth topic addresses Brazil's geopolitical actions within the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, analyzing the country's initiatives to promote cooperation and integration in the region.
2 Brazil in the geopolitical context of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor
The Bi-Oceanic Corridor that connects Brazil to Chile, passing through Paraguay and Argentina, is a project that directly involves international relations in its construction and operationalization, despite the existing free trade agreements between the countries in the region and a trade bloc like Mercosur. This initiative aims to reduce the time and costs of transporting goods between the Atlantic and the Pacific, favoring trade between South American countries, East Asia, and Arab countries.
To accomplish this project, cooperation was necessary among the countries involved, with the signing of bilateral and multilateral agreements, as well as the participation of international organizations in overseeing and financing the project. The highway that will connect Brazil to Chile is essential for the physical integration of the region and for the development of trade between the countries involved. International organizations involved in the project include the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), which provided financial and technical resources for the project. The Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil also played a crucial role in the coordination and negotiation with the countries involved (Figueiredo, 2021).
ECLAC contributes to the project by conducting studies and analyses on its feasibility and socioeconomic impacts, as well as on the possibilities of regional integration and cooperation among the countries involved. Additionally, ECLAC acts as a facilitator of dialogue and the negotiation process among the governments of the countries involved in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor.
In turn, BNDES has participated in financing infrastructure and logistics projects that are part of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, such as the construction of the bridge over the Paraguay River in Porto Murtinho (MS) and the paving of the Transchaco highway in Paraguay. The bank has also encouraged the participation of Brazilian companies in the projects of the Corridor, contributing to the internationalization of Brazilian companies and strengthening the Brazilian economy.
Another issue related to the operationalization of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor is the cooperation between Brazil and Chile in the area of trade, as Chile is not a full member of Mercosur. In 2018, a free trade agreement was signed between the two countries, which facilitated the circulation of goods and reduced tariff and non-tariff barriers. This agreement contributed to the strengthening of trade relations between the countries and the promotion of regional economic development.
In summary, the international relations involved in the construction and operationalization of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor are diverse and complex. They involve cooperation among the countries involved, the signing of bilateral and multilateral agreements, the participation of international organizations, and the promotion of regional development. The success of this project depends on the continuity and strengthening of these relationships, as well as the implementation of public policies that favor the establishment and operationalization of the Corridor as a whole.
It is important to emphasize that at the core of the project is Mercosur. Mercosur is a regional integration organization formed by Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, with the aim of promoting the free movement of goods, services, and people among member countries. Chile, on the other hand, is an associate member of the bloc, participating in some agreements and trade negotiations but without having all the rights and obligations of member countries. Although Mercosur and Chile have made progress in some trade agreements, such as Economic Complementation Agreement n. 35 (ACE 35), there are still challenges to be overcome for the integration process to be completed. It is necessary to advance negotiations for the elimination of tariff and non-tariff barriers, as well as to promote greater cooperation in areas such as infrastructure and energy (Vieira; Lemos, 2019).
One of the challenges for advancing the integration process is the divergence of interests among member and associate countries. Additionally, there are internal political issues that often hinder the ratification of trade and regional integration agreements. Also, for the integration process between Mercosur and Chile to be completed, it is essential to make progress in negotiations that allow the free movement of goods and services among the countries involved. Moreover, it is necessary to promote greater cooperation in areas such as education, culture, and science and technology, to foster greater knowledge and idea exchange among the countries.
Therefore, Brazil plays an extremely important role in the context of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, which connects the country to Chile, passing through Paraguay and Argentina. Its strategic geographical location and its position as one of the largest economies in South America confer a central role to Brazil in the physical integration and strengthening of trade relations among the countries involved.
Brazil's active participation in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor project demonstrates its commitment to promoting regional cooperation and driving international trade. The country plays a fundamental role in coordinating and negotiating with neighboring countries, as well as contributing financially to the implementation of infrastructure and logistics projects that are part of the Corridor.
Furthermore, Brazil is a member of Mercosur, a regional integration organization that seeks to promote the free movement of goods, services, and people among member countries. Cooperation between Brazil and Chile, despite the differences between Mercosur and Chile's associate member status, has advanced through trade agreements that facilitate bilateral trade and strengthen economic relations between the two countries.
The successful implementation of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor will bring significant benefits to Brazil, including the reduction of costs and transportation time for goods between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the strengthening of trade relations with Asian and Middle Eastern countries, and the promotion of regional economic development.
Therefore, Brazil plays a central role in the context of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, contributing to regional integration, the strengthening of international relations, and economic development. Its active participation and commitment to promoting cooperation among the countries involved are essential for the success of this strategic project, which will bring lasting benefits to the entire region.
3 Geopolitical latencies among the countries of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor
The construction of the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor has sparked significant interest in the global geopolitical landscape, but there are unresolved geopolitical issues among the countries involved (The World Bank, 2021). Issues such as political divergences, conflicts of interest, and lack of cooperation in strategic areas can affect the progress of the project (Laserna, 2018; Villa, 2019; Díaz; Wagner, 2019).
The relations between Chile and Bolivia face a historical conflict related to access to the sea (Laserna, 2018). The territorial disputes between Chile and Peru, including control over access to the sea, have been a point of disagreement between the two countries (Villa, 2019). Argentina and Chile have pending issues regarding border delineation and natural resource management, especially the dispute over the Puelo River basin (Díaz; Wagner, 2019).
These conflicts can impact the development and operationalization of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, which relies on cooperation among the countries involved (The World Bank, 2021). Additionally, there are additional challenges for regional integration within the scope of Mercosur, such as economic asymmetries, tariff and non-tariff barriers, lack of political coordination, and institutional fragility (Basualdo; Graham, 2018; Saraiva, 2019; Camargo, 2019).
To overcome these challenges, diplomatic solutions and mutual cooperation among the countries involved are necessary (The World Bank, 2021). In the case of the Chile-Bolivia relationship, alternatives such as establishing a free trade zone for Bolivia in the Chilean coastal region or exploring transportation options through Peruvian or Brazilian ports can be considered. For Chile and Peru, dialogue and the establishment of expert commissions to assess the territorial dispute are essential. Regarding Argentina and Chile, it is necessary to establish more effective cooperation in natural resource management and border delineation, especially regardingthe Puelo River basin.
Within the Mercosur framework, it is crucial to make progress in seeking solutions that enhance regional integration, strengthen cooperation, and overcome existing challenges (The World Bank, 2021). Only through dialogue and cooperation can the geopolitical challenges involved in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor project be overcome, ensuring its benefits for the entire region (The World Bank, 2021).
The role of Brazil in the context of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor is crucial, considering the geopolitical latencies among the countries involved. While the project presents potential economic and social benefits, it is important to acknowledge the existing geopolitical challenges, such as historical conflicts and territorial disputes along the route. To ensure the success of the corridor, countries must seek diplomatic solutions and mutual cooperation to address these outstanding issues. Additionally, Mercosur faces internal challenges that need to be addressed, such as economic asymmetries, trade barriers, lack of political coordination, institutional fragility, and political conflicts. It is essential for Mercosur to advance in seeking solutions to enhance regional integration and strengthen cooperation among its members. Only through dialogue and cooperation can the geopolitical challenges be overcome, promoting regional integration and ensuring socio-economic development and political stability in the region.
4 GEOPOLITICAL IMPORTANCE OF BRAZIL IN THE CONTEXT OF THE BI-OCEANIC CORRIDOR
Given the presented evidence, it is possible to affirm that Brazil holds a strategic geographical position in South America, being the largest country in the region in terms of territorial area and bordering almost all neighboring countries, except Ecuador and Chile. This location grants Brazil significant influence in regional integration and problem-solving, enabling it to play an important role in promoting cooperation and economic development in the region (Souza, 2021).
In the context of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, Brazil plays a central role in regional trade as the route passes through the country, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Additionally, Brazil is a major producer of commodities such as soybeans, beef, and iron ore, which are exported to Asian and European countries. This characteristic makes the corridor an attractive route for Asia, as Brazilian products can be directly shipped from ports located in the Pacific Ocean. On the other hand, trade with Europe and the United States has long been established through coastal routes since the colonization period (Silva, 2018).
On the global stage, Brazil has been increasingly recognized as an influential player. The country was one of the founding members of the BRICS group, composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and is a member of the G-20, which brings together the world's 20 largest economies. Furthermore, Brazil seeks to strengthen ties with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), comprising the world's most developed countries, and is engaged in negotiations, together with Mercosur, for an agreement with the European Union (Oliveira, 2019).
This prominent position in the global scenario is a result of the size and diversity of the Brazilian economy, which encompasses a wide range of natural resources, an industrial sector in need of revitalization, a significant domestic market, and a continuously growing population. Brazil is recognized as a major producer of commodities such as soybeans, beef, iron ore, petroleum, and coffee, which are exported to various countries around the world (Santos, 2020).
In addition to the economic aspect, Brazil plays a prominent role in Latin America due to its territorial and population size. Its strategic geographical position allows the country to serve as a bridge between Latin American countries and those involved in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, which is a crucial route that traverses Brazil and connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, passing through nations like Paraguay and Argentina towards Chilean ports (Almeida, 2017).
Therefore, considering Brazil's strategic geographical position, its central role in regional trade, its global protagonism, and its influence in Latin America, the geopolitical importance of Brazil in the context of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor becomes evident. The country possesses the resources and conditions necessary to play a significant role in regional integration, economic cooperation, and development, solidifying itself as a fundamental actor in the current geopolitical landscape.
5 GEOPOLITICAL ACTIONS OF BRAZIL WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE BI-OCEANIC CORRIDOR
In the context of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, some of the geopolitical actions that Brazil will need to undertake within the scope of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor include the following, as explicitly stated in the subtopics below:
5.1 Intensification of cooperation with the countries involved
Brazil will need to intensify cooperation with the countries involved in the Transoceanic Corridor, such as Paraguay, Argentina, and Chile, in order to promote regional integration and economic development. This may include actions such as promoting trade agreements, investing in infrastructure, and participating in regional forums (Cano, 2019). Due to its diversified economy and robust domestic consumer market, Brazil becomes an important destination for foreign investment and a significant global player within this context.
Therefore, cooperation with the countries involved in the Transoceanic Corridor is crucial for the project's success, as the necessary infrastructure for the route's operation will need to be jointly constructed by the countries. Moreover, intensifying cooperation can promote regional integration and economic development, benefiting not only Brazil but also the other countries involved.
One way to intensify cooperation is through the promotion of trade agreements, such as reducing tariffs and trade barriers among the countries involved. This can boost exports and imports, as well as increase the competitiveness of Brazilian companies in the international market.
Another way to intensify cooperation is through investments in infrastructure, which are necessary to ensure the effective operation of the Transoceanic Corridor. Brazil can contribute by investing in ports, highways, and railways, for example, which would help improve connectivity between the countries involved.
Lastly, participation in regional forums is also important for intensifying cooperation among the countries involved in the Transoceanic Corridor. Brazil can leverage its leadership position in Mercosur to promote dialogue among countries and seek joint solutions to the challenges that arise throughout the process of constructing and operating the route.
In summary, intensifying cooperation with the countries involved in the Transoceanic Corridor is a crucial geopolitical action for Brazil within the context of Mercosur, as it can promote regional integration and economic development while benefiting the Brazilian economy.
5.2 Development of infrastructure projects
In the context of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, it is necessary for Brazil to promote the development of infrastructure projects aimed at increasing the corridor's efficiency and driving economic and commercial integration among South American countries. To achieve this goal, the construction and modernization of highways, railways, and ports are essential, with the aim of reducing transportation time and costs, making the involved countries more competitive (Carvalho, 2019).
The integration of South American countries has been one of the region's main challenges in recent years. In this context, the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor emerges as a relevant initiative to boost economic and commercial integration. Brazil plays a key role in this process and should invest in infrastructure projects to make the corridor efficient and competitive.
The development of infrastructure projects along the Bi-Oceanic Corridor is crucial to improve transportation and logistics conditions among the involved countries. To do so, Brazil can contribute significantly through the construction and modernization of highways, railways, and ports that connect the regions producing goods along the corridor.
These infrastructure projects will bring numerous benefits to the region's countries, such as reduced transportation costs, increased product competitiveness, and improved access to global markets. Additionally, the integration of countries will promote cooperation and contribute to political and economic stability in the region.
As one of the main members of Mercosur, Brazil has the capacity to lead the integration process and the development of infrastructure projects. Mercosur is an economic bloc formed by Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, aiming to promote the free movement of goods, services, and people among its member countries. Furthermore, the bloc seeks to expand its trade relations with other countries in the region, such as Chile, Bolivia, and Peru.
In this regard, Brazil can leverage its position in Mercosur to stimulate regional integration and the development of infrastructure projects that benefit all involved countries. Additionally, Brazil can seek partnerships with other countries and economic blocs, such as China and the European Union, in order to obtain financial and technological resources capable of driving the development of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor and the region as a whole.
5.3 Promotion of innovation and technology
In the context of the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor, the promotion of innovation and technology is essential to drive economic development and increase the competitiveness of the countries involved. Strategic partnerships in areas such as renewable energy, biotechnology, and information technology are crucial in this process (Sennes; Neumann, 2018).
The promotion of innovation and technology plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor, which involves not only Brazil and Chile but also other countries in the region, such as Argentina and Paraguay. Brazil can adopt several actions to drive economic development and increase the competitiveness of participating countries.
Regarding the movement of people, it is important to seek harmonization of migration norms and regulations among the corridor countries to facilitate the flow of people and make travel more efficient. The application of technologies such as facial recognition systems and biometrics can expedite immigration procedures while enhancing border security.
In terms of cargo transportation, innovation and technology can be applied in various ways. The adoption of real-time tracking systems, for example, can increase logistics chain efficiency by allowing better route planning and delivery schedules. Additionally, the use of autonomous vehicles and drones can reduce costs and delivery times, enhancing the competitiveness of transported goods.
Another way to promote innovation and technology is by establishing strategic partnerships in the areas of renewable energy, biotechnology, and information technology. These partnerships can bring significant benefits to the entire region by enabling the sharing of knowledge and experiences, accelerating the development of new technologies and solutions for common challenges.
Brazil, as one of the main members of Mercosur, can lead this initiative by encouraging the creation of collaboration networks among companies, universities, and research centers in the region. To achieve this, it is crucial to implement public policies that foster innovation, such as providing tax incentives, offering specific lines of credit, and promoting capacity-building programs for professionals in the field.
5.4 Strengthening Regional Security
Brazil will need to work together with the countries involved in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor to ensure the security and integrity of people and goods transiting through the corridor. This includes cooperation on security issues such as combating drug trafficking and smuggling to ensure the safety and stability of the corridor (Duarte Villa, 2019).
The Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor is a strategic project for the integration and development of South America, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Chile. Brazil, as a member of Mercosur and one of the main actors in the project, plays a fundamental role in strengthening regional security of the corridor, ensuring the integrity of people and goods transiting through it.
To achieve this objective, Brazil will need to work together with the other countries involved, promoting cooperation on security issues and combating drug trafficking and smuggling. Drug trafficking and smuggling pose threats to regional security as they can generate instability and violence in the corridor.
One action that Brazil can take is to strengthen the security forces and intelligence of the countries involved, promoting cooperation on security issues. This includes sharing information, conducting joint operations, and developing strategies for prevention and combating crime.
Additionally, Brazil can invest in security technologies such as cargo monitoring and tracking systems, which can increase the efficiency and security of goods transportation along the corridor. Implementing appropriate security measures can also reduce transit time for goods, improving the competitiveness of the countries involved.
Finally, it is important to emphasize that regional security is crucial for the success of the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor and for the economic and social integration of the region. Strengthening regional security should be a priority for all countries involved, and Brazil has a key role to play in this process, contributing to the stability and development of the corridor and the region as a whole.
5.5 Promotion of dialogue and regional cooperation
Brazil will need to promote regional dialogue and cooperation to address common challenges affecting the countries involved in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, such as climate change, security, and economic integration. This may include participation in regional forums and the promotion of cooperative initiatives to tackle these challenges (Calixtre, 2020).
Promoting regional dialogue and cooperation is one of the most important actions Brazil can undertake within the context of Mercosur and the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, as it is essential to address the common challenges affecting the involved countries and ensure the success of the initiative. To promote regional dialogue and cooperation, Brazil can actively participate in regional forums such as the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR), the Organization of American States (OAS), and the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI). These forums are important platforms for regional dialogue and cooperation and can help promote economic integration, sustainable development, and regional security.
Additionally, Brazil can promote regional cooperation initiatives such as capacity-building programs, knowledge and technology exchange, and joint actions to address specific challenges like climate change and security. In this regard, it is important for Brazil to share its best practices and knowledge in areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, and information technology.
Another crucial measure is strengthening bilateral relations with the countries involved in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor through agreements and partnerships that promote cooperation in strategic areas such as infrastructure, energy, trade, and investments.
Lastly, Brazil can support initiatives that promote economic integration and cooperation within Mercosur, such as policy and norm harmonization, trade facilitation, and incentives for investment in the region. This can help increase the competitiveness of the countries involved in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor and promote sustainable economic development in the region. These geopolitical actions by Brazil aim to strengthen regional integration and trade among the countries involved in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, promoting economic development and cooperation among Latin American countries.
Given this context, it is expected that Brazil will continue to play an important role in the regional integration process and the consolidation of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor. The country can seek to strengthen cooperation with neighboring countries and international organizations involved in the project to ensure the necessary funding and implementation of actions for its completion. Furthermore, Brazil can seek to expand its trade relations with Pacific and Latin American countries, taking advantage of the opportunities generated by the connectivity provided by the Bi-Oceanic Corridor. However, it is also important for Brazil to be mindful of the geopolitical issues involved in the regional integration process and deal appropriately with the tensions and challenges that may arise along the way.
It is also expected that Brazil will continue to play a significant role in promoting the Bi-Oceanic Corridor and regional integration in Latin America. The country can seize the opportunity to deepen its cooperation with the countries involved in the project and seek new partnerships and trade agreements in the Pacific region. Additionally, Brazil can utilize its political and economic influence to promote an integration vision that benefits all involved countries and respects their interests. On a broader scale, it can be expected that Brazil will continue to be a prominent player in Latin American foreign policy and seek opportunities to expand its presence in the global economy.
Given Brazil's geopolitical importance in the context of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, it is expected that the country will maintain its commitment to regional integration and cooperation with the countries involved in the project. This may include the continuation of negotiations for the implementation of the corridor and the strengthening of bilateral relations with Chile and other countries in the region. Additionally, Brazil may seek to expand its influence in the region through the project by promoting cooperation initiatives and investments in infrastructure and economic development. With the construction of the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, Brazil can also aim to expand its trade relations with Pacific and other Latin American countries, increasing its participation in the global economy.
Lastly, but not least, it is expected that Brazil will continue to play an active role in the coordination and negotiation with the countries involved in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor project. This includes seeking solutions to overcome tariff and non-tariff barriers that still hinder the project's progress. It is also expected that the country will maintain cooperation with international organizations such as ECLAC and the IDB, and continue to invest in infrastructure and logistics to strengthen its position as a regional leader and expand its participation in the global economy. Additionally, it is expected that Brazil will take advantage of the integration and cooperation opportunities offered by the Bi-Oceanic Corridor project to expand its trade with Pacific and Latin American countries.
Based on the reflections presented, it can be concluded that Brazil has a crucial role in the Bi-Oceanic Corridor project and its consolidation as a route for regional integration. Its active participation in negotiations and cooperation with other countries and international organizations is essential to overcome tariff and non-tariff barriers that still limit regional integration. The completion of the project can strengthen Brazil's position as a regional leader and expand its participation in the global economy, allowing the country to connect more easily with Pacific countries and other countries in Latin America. Therefore, it is important for Brazil to continue promoting geopolitical actions to drive the Bi-Oceanic Corridor project and strengthen its position as a regional leader (Calixtre, 2020).
6 CONCLUSION
The Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor is a project of great importance for regional integration and the diversification of trade routes in South America. In addition to economic and logistical aspects, this corridor also has relevant geopolitical implications, promoting cooperation among the countries involved and driving integration between Mercosur and the Pacific Alliance. To overcome the geopolitical challenges present in this context, it is necessary to seek diplomatic and mutually cooperative solutions, aiming to resolve historical conflicts and territorial disputes.
The implementation of the project depends on the continuity and strengthening of international relations, as well as the implementation of public policies that favor the operationalization of the corridor. It is crucial to advance in trade agreements and negotiations to eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers, promoting greater cooperation in areas such as infrastructure and energy. In this regard, the example of the European Union demonstrates how progress in trade agreements can drive the regional integration process.
Brazil, with its strategic geographical position and influence in regional integration and problem-solving, plays a central role in this project. Moreover, the country is a significant player in regional and international trade, especially in commodity exports to Asia and Europe. Therefore, the Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor represents a significant opportunity to promote cooperation, economic development, and regional integration. The success of this project depends on the ongoing commitment of the countries involved, the resolution of geopolitical challenges, and the implementation of policies that drive infrastructure and trade in the region.
In this context, Brazil should seek to strengthen its relations with neighboring countries as well as international organizations to ensure the financing and implementation of the necessary actions for the project's completion. Additionally, it is important for Brazil to be aware of the geopolitical issues involved in the regional integration process and to deal appropriately with tensions and challenges that may arise along the way. With its active participation in promoting the Bi-Oceanic Corridor, Brazil has the opportunity to strengthen its position as a regional leader, expand its trade relations, and play an important role in Latin American foreign policy.
The Brazil-Chile Bi-Oceanic Corridor represents, in this perspective, a significant milestone in the pursuit of regional integration and the diversification of trade routes. It is a complex project that requires cooperation, commitment, and the overcoming of geopolitical challenges. Brazil, as a central country in this endeavor, should continue to play an active role in the pursuit of the implementation and consolidation of this corridor, leveraging the opportunities for cooperation and economic development it provides. In doing so, Brazil can strengthen its position as an important player in the global economy and regional integration.
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Publication Dates
-
Publication in this collection
08 Mar 2024 -
Date of issue
Oct-Dec 2023
History
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Received
10 June 2023 -
Accepted
15 June 2023
