The Impact of the Issue of Kosovo and Metohija on Serbian — Albanian Relations

Abstract

: The article considers the current state of Serbian – Albanian relations by 2020. It gives an overview of the importance of Albania’s position on the issue of Kosovo and Metohija for the deepening of bilateral relations as well as the Serbian strategy in the region, analyses the main contradictions in Belgrade – Tirana relations, and identifies the features of Serbian diplomacy towards Albania. The chronological scope of the study is limited to 2008–2020, which is due to the emphasis on the analysis of the current disagreements between the two states in connection with the recent developments in Kosovo and Metohija. The article also deals with the changing situation in the Western Balkans in the context of the full incorporation of all countries into the European and Euro-Atlantic integration institutions. This article examines the internal and external factors of a certain degree of Serbian – Albanian relations, the positions and actions of those who support and those who oppose the cooperation of the two countries not only at the bilateral but also at the regional level.