Introduction

The South Atlantic is an extremely important axis for Brazil largely due to relations with the African continent. In a superficial analysis made by some critics, the Brazilian strategy is defined as paradoxical in that it appears to be fostering diplomacy with the poorest countries that have little influence in the global geopolitical context and even less significance in the Brazilian balance of trade. However, it is necessary to evaluate some political and economic trends linked to the ever-enlarging globalisation process. Mention must be made of the fact that Brazil is not only a traditional (and now competitive) exporter of primary products, services and manufactured goods but also of capital and technology. Africa is one of the most suitable targets for Brazilian investments because it is one of the last natural borders still receptive to expanding business in sectors like oil, gas and mining; moreover, the continent also emerges as an important space for political and diplomatic exchanges. On the other hand, there are global disputes over access in the region to the increasingly scarce raw materials required by the traditional powers that have intensified their aggressive and interventionist actions.

Thus, from the Brazilian perspective, the South Atlantic provides a solid connection with Africa (especially South Africa) and Asia through the Indian Ocean. In addition to the south of the African continent becoming a logistical base, it has emerged that the South Atlantic (and also the Indian Ocean) is full of energy resources with gas and oil reserves in the pre-salt layer. There have been new discoveries on both Atlantic coasts and in considerable parts of the Indian Ocean. As a result, not only must sovereignty over the territorial waters be clearly defined and the necessary security for navigation in the Ocean maintained, but any militarisation initiative by extra-regional powers in these maritime spaces must be blocked.

The increasing economic importance of the South Atlantic is accompanied by growing international pressure on the region. It is important to note the expanding military presence of the United Kingdom (with the support of the United States) due to the dispute with Argentina over the Malvinas/Falklands Islands.