Diplomacy and defense: an analysis of diplomats perception and role in the construction of mutual confidence between Argentina and Brazil (1995-2008)

Abstract

During the Cold War period, the relationship between Argentina and Brazil was marked by the sign of rivalry and by the existence of authoritarian regimes. However, some years before the end of the ideological conflict between USA and URSS, the distrust between Argentina and Brazil was ameliorated by the promotion of confidence measures. The construction of confidence has advanced in the next years, promoting integration and cooperation between both States. In this context of constructing a cooperative identity, several actors have an important role and, therefore, this research focuses in the diplomats' role and the perception in the processes of constructing mutual confidence. Regarding methodology, it's used discourse analysis and its interpretation by the constructivist theory of International Relations. The discourse analysis has the purpose of investigating if there is common identity and interests between Brazil and Argentina and if there are still contradictions in its relationship. (AU)