Albania’s former President Ilir Meta is concerned that the United States is forgetting about Albania and the Western Balkans, which he sees as key NATO allies. He believes that outside actors like Russia are working to hinder the region’s EU integration and NATO membership by creating a vacuum to undermine European values and foundations. Despite Albania’s contributions to U.S. foreign policy goals, the country feels neglected by President Biden and Western policymakers, especially in the current geopolitical landscape where Ukraine and Israel are taking center stage. The recent appointment of Aleksandar Vulin, who has close ties to Russia, in Serbia’s new government has also raised concerns about the country’s pro-Russian sentiments.
Former President Meta is wary of the “Open Balkans” initiative, which aims to facilitate the free flow of people and goods across the region but could potentially undermine European integration efforts. He fears that the initiative could bolster hybrid regimes like Serbia, leading to a weakening of democracy, political pluralism, and media freedom. Serbia, however, views the initiative as a means to promote economic cooperation and regional stability. The country’s Foreign Minister Marko Djuric emphasized Serbia’s commitment to democracy, regional cooperation, and the European Union integration process, despite skepticism from the West regarding its intentions.
Agim Nesho, a former Albanian ambassador, and other observers believe that leaders like Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Albanian Prime Minister Rama are undemocratic, corrupt, and detrimental to U.S. and European interests. They argue that appeasing Serbia could backfire by allowing Vucic to exploit the region’s vulnerabilities and strengthen ties with Russia. Russia’s influence in the Balkans is seen as a threat to regional stability, with Putin leveraging crises in Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina to enhance Moscow’s regional power. The U.S. is urged to recognize the importance of the Balkans in addressing global challenges and not overlook its partnership with Albania.
Despite concerns about Russia’s influence and the potential destabilization of the Balkans, Serbia’s Foreign Minister Djuric maintains that the country is committed to strengthening its cooperation with the United States and staying on the European path. He rejects criticisms of Serbia’s policies and aligns with President Vucic’s goal of maintaining a strategic partnership with Europe. While some fear that Serbia’s actions could be a move towards aligning with Moscow’s interests, Djuric emphasizes the country’s dedication to stability, security, and prosperity in the region. Ultimately, the Balkans continue to be a region of focus for geopolitical tensions and the balancing act between East and West interests.
