José Sócrates, the Portuguese Prime-Minister, informed to the President of the European Commission, José Manuel Durão Barroso, of the request of Portugal to ask for the activation of the financial support mechanisms.

The President of the European Commission reaffirmed his confidence in Portugal's capacity to overcome the present difficulties, with the solidarity of its partners. Moreover, EC assured that this request will be processed in the swiftest possible manner, according to the rules applicable. The official request was presented on the 7 of April.

The Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union stands ready to help immediately Portugal. The Presidency considers the announce made by Portugal as a "responsible move in order to safeguard financial stability in his country and therefore, in the eurozone". After agreement with the President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, of not convoking an extraordinary European Council, the issue will be discussed at an informal meeting of finance ministers.  From a legal point of view, the Eurogroup and the Council of Ministers can take all necessary decisions in this regard, and the Hungarian Presidency will make sure that the issue is put on the agenda without undue delay.