I doubt a "close friend" would count for anything. I'm sure one of the considerations would be family ties, but ultimately it would depend on whether the country feels they are a good fit and will contribute to the country. There's a lot more to the process than registering and then picking your favourite country. The premise is you are in a desperate situation and anywhere offering safe haven is preferable than the current situation. it's not a travel agency where you tell them you want to go here only or you aren't going!