The Relations of Albania with its Neighbouring Countries
The Relations of Albania with its Neighbouring Countries

Summary/Abstract: Albania is considered to play a crucial role for the security and stability of the whole region by contributing to the development of regional policies in Southeast Europe. Here, the development of friendly relations of Albania with its neighbours is most important. Greece, as a „Euro-regional strategic partner“ is of high importance, with the existence of a Greek minority in Albania, with many Albanian emigrants living and working in Greece and with considerable Greek investments in Albania. Existing obstacles in bi-lateral relations should be overcome by applying a future oriented approach, avoiding old prejudices. The status of minorities should be regulated with full respect to modern European standards. Concerning relations with Macedonia, the recent change of government in Skopje is considered as a positive development for bi-lateral relations, as the new government seems to be committed to a full implementation of the Ohrid Framework Agreement, granting equal rights to the Albanians in Macedonia. Relations with Serbia and Montenegro have considerably improved, following the overthrow of the Milosevic regime. Most importantly, the most controversial Kosovo issue is eliminated as an obstacle to normal relations. The relations to Kosovo are of a „special character“, due to common historical traditions and blood relations. While Albanian foreign politics are fully aware of this fact, Albanian governments have not been committed to the creation of a „Greater Albania“. Albania fully respects the UN Resolution 1244 and sees the future in a European integration of Albania and Kosovo alike.

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