Yup, using remote desktop connection should allow you to connect thru to your friends pc. Open it up & make sure he is online too ... then obtain his IP address & go from there. Although I've only used Remote desktop connection on a network, so maybe there will be a chance you cannot do it. But try it anyway.
If not, take your pc to your mates house & network them together. But im sure there is a way you can do it from your home. Ah thats right! Remember to have your friend in remoe desktop too. Test it out first with Net Meeting to see if you can get through to him, or maybe have MSN or whatever messenger open for the both of you too.
Good luck wiv dat & post your results here eh? :grinthumb