The Western Balkans in the World : Linkages and Relations with Non-Western Countries

This chapter explores the implicit and explicit linkages of external powers and their influence in Albanian policy over the past decade. By discussing facts and arguments on the will and objectives, the historical links and current strengths, and the areas of interest of different international actors in Albania and beyond, the chapter argues for the need to examine the dynamics of the distribution of power and ideas at regional and international levels to understand the challenges to existing linkages and the drivers of new ones. The implications of several Albanian linkages with the EU, Russia, Turkey, China, and the Gulf countries are discussed by exposing both opportunities and constraints of current political choices and their consequences in the future course of the country and the development of further synergistic linkages.