‘German Chancellor Schroeder is proposing to establish a European government. A European government?! And which ministry would be earmarked for Portugal? Given our austerity and technical prowess, the Finance Ministry, no doubt.' The Portuguese cartoonist Luís Alfonso takes an ironic look at Portugal's economic and financial situation.

The Portuguese cartoonist Jorge Mateus takes an ironic look at aid applications from farmers under the common agricultural policy (CAP).

Following the Rome European Council held on 27 and 28 October 1990, the Spanish cartoonist Alfredo comments on the opposition of Margaret Thatcher, British Prime Minister, to the setting of a timetable for economic and monetary union. At the meeting, Margaret Thatcher rejects the Spanish proposal to postpone the deadlines. In the cartoon, Felipe González, as a good Andalusian, launches his charm offensive with the Iron Lady, who remains impassive.

‘Because of the Dutch “No”, London wants to call a halt to the European Treaty ratification process. That’s a good solution: that way, the “Yeses” and the “Noes” neither win nor lose … the result’s a draw.’ In 2005, Portuguese cartoonists Aníbal and Reimão take an ironic look at the British reaction to the results of the referendum held in the Netherlands on the ratification of the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe.

‘Portugal was the only country to ask the Church to help … … promote the euro. Hmm … does that mean that the other countries will have a material relationship with the currency, whilst ours will be more spiritual …? The Portuguese cartoonist Luís Afonso, depicting the pro-euro campaign to promote the launch of the single currency, takes an ironic look at Portugal's economic and financial situation.

‘Sorry, Sir, but all those with the Cohesion Fund must sit up in the pigeon loft.’ Spanish cartoonists Ventura and El Burladero take an ironic look at Spain’s status as a net beneficiary compared to that of Germany, France and the United Kingdom.