Strong ties

Portugal, despite its battered economy, emerged as a formidable campaigner, said one ambassador who watched the election closely. It benefited from a talented representative in New York, strong ties in Africa and the ability to appeal to many member states as a fellow small country. European nations voted en masse for Portugal, including those hoping for future entry into the European Union. And Portuguese-speaking Brazil went to bat for the mother country.
Directamente do Globe and Mail - Canadá,
a propósito da nomeação de Portugal para o Concelho de Segurança
das Nações Unidas.