New Zealand celebrates as Prime Minister John Key won a seat in the UN Security Council Friday on a close 145-193 vote race against Turkey and Spain.

In his speech, Key emphasized that the country's ability to secure a seat in the General Assembly proves that checkbook diplomacy or the use of economic and investment aid for international favors are not compulsory. New Zealand will replace Australia in time for its term expiry by the end of the year.

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New Zealand prides itself that a small nation composed of 4.5 million did not need to pledge millions of dollars in return for political support. Key told reporters that aside from having rich biodiversity and stable employment opportunities, Kiwis are known as "honest broker[s], someone that stands up for what's right."

Key mentioned that New Zealand's argument in the 1993-94 UN intervention against the Rwanda genocide paved the way to win the council's favor. It is Kiwi's proposition to use democratic approach with the Islamic State crisis.

The 53-year-old New Zealand leader emphasized diplomacy's role in "find long-term solutions." He also clarified that their membership to the UN Security Council will not influence their stand in providing military support to Syria-Iraq conflict tagged as Operation Inherent Resolve.

Ex-Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd extended his congratulations and added that New Zealand was able to secure five more votes than what Australia garnered during its term.

Rudd encouraged other countries in the Caribbean and Pacific regions to follow New Zealand's legend to participate in the largest international peacekeeping organization.

The remaining three seats are awarded to newly-elected Angola, Malaysia, and Venezuela.

Tagspolitics, Oceania, new zealand