BUENOS AIRES, Feb. 23 (Xinhua) -- Brazil and Argentina are seeking to establish a military alliance in South America that would implement a coordinated defense policy, Argentina's defense ministry said Saturday.

    During a meeting with his Argentine counterpart Nilda Garre on Friday, Brazil's Defense Minister Nelson Jobim said South America should speak with one voice and seek a unified position on major issues.

    That would give South America a bigger say in international affairs, Jobim said.

    Garre agreed and said the two countries shared many views on regional security and defense issues.

    The Brazilian government has been advocating the establishment of a new military alliance aimed at maintaining regional peace and avoid an arms race.

    Ecuador, Colombia and Chile have also voiced their support for the idea of forming a military alliance in the region.