The definition of borders, through treaties and arbitration, was vital for the strengthening of diplomatic relations between Brazil and other South America countries. It contributed to the principle of peaceful solution of disputes among states. The vast area occupied by the national territory, cut by the Equator and the Tropic of Capricorn, comprises a wide variety of climates, landscapes and vegetation. Five great regions, with their own characteristics, form the national territory: North, Northeast, Midwest, Southeast and South. Brazil’s Political Map Boa Vista RORAIMA ATLANTIC OCEAN AMAPÁ Macapá Equator Belém Manaus São Luís PARÁ AMAZONAS Fortaleza MARANHÃO Teresina RIO GRANDE DO NORTE CEARÁ Natal João Pessoa PARAÍBA PIAUÍ ACRE Porto Velho PERNAMBUCO Recife ALAGOAS Palmas Maceió Rio Branco SERGIPE TOCANTINS RONDÔNIA Aracaju BAHIA MATO GROSSO Salvador DISTRITO FEDERAL Cuiabá Brasília GOIÁS Goiânia Regions MINAS GERAIS Belo Horizonte Campo Grande North ESPÍRITO SANTO Northeast Vitória MATO GROSSO DO SUL PACIFC OCEAN CHAPTER 1 — THE BRAZILIAN STATE AND NATIONAL DEFENSE The national territory represents more than the landmass where the state exercises its authority. The territory is also subject to deep affection and sentiments of belonging. SÃO PAULO RIO DE JANEIRO Rio de Janeiro Southeast Tropic of Capricorn São Paulo PARANÁ SANTA CATARINA RIO GRANDE DO SUL Florianópolis South Midwest Curitiba ATLANTIC OCEAN Legend Limit State Porto Alegre Limit Country Capital of States Federal Capital Source: IBGE. 18 DEFENSE WHITE PAPER