Opening the map of Europe, your gaze passes over the prosperous Western Europe and the quaint Eastern Europe, finally settling on an unremarkable corner. There lies a country that seems to quietly exist as if forgotten by the world—it is Albania.
For many people, the presence of Albania is even less noticeable than tiny countries like Luxembourg or the "country within a country" like Vatican City.
Albania is neither permanently neutral like Switzerland nor frequently in the international geopolitical spotlight like Ukraine. It seems to exist on the periphery of mainstream attention, quietly writing its own history.
Albania—a name that carries with it an air of mystery.
Located in the southwestern part of the Balkan Peninsula, it faces the Adriatic Sea to the west, with Italy across the water, and connects to the vast inland Balkans to the east.
The Balkan region has long been known as the "powder keg of Europe," where ethnic and religious conflicts have constantly intertwined, and where the powers have often competed for influence.
As part of this region, Albania has also struggled to avoid being drawn into these conflicts.
In modern times, Albania has experienced the rule of the Ottoman Empire, Italy, and Germany on its land. It wasn't until after World War II that Albania finally broke free from foreign control and achieved independence.
However, the road after independence was also fraught with challenges.
During the Cold War, Albania took a unique diplomatic path. It neither joined the NATO alliance led by the United States nor completely aligned with the Soviet bloc. Instead, it became an active participant in the Non-Aligned Movement, attempting to carve out a space for independent development between the East and West.
This unique diplomatic strategy helped Albania maintain its national sovereignty to some extent, but it also left the country without full support or economic aid from the major powers.
In the 21st century, Albania has actively sought to integrate into the European family and applied to join the European Union.
However, due to its economic development lagging behind EU standards and weaknesses in areas such as the rule of law, Albania’s EU accession process remains slow.
One reason for Albania's "low presence" is its economic underdevelopment.
Statistics show that Albania’s per capita GDP has long been among the lowest in European countries, with high unemployment and slow economic growth.
Several factors contribute to this, including a narrow industrial base, outdated infrastructure, and difficulties in attracting foreign investment.
These long-standing issues have made it difficult for Albania to play a significant role in the global economic system.
Once, Albania adopted relatively closed policies, with little interaction with the outside world, missing out on several opportunities to develop its economy.
In recent years, Albania has gradually opened up, especially in the tourism sector, working hard to attract foreign investment.
However, to completely change its economically underdeveloped situation, Albania will still need to make considerable efforts.
Despite Albania’s less-than-ideal economic situation, it boasts a rich cultural history and abundant natural resources.
In ancient Greek and Roman times, it was an important center for cultural exchange, leaving behind many ancient ruins.
The Ottoman rule also brought a deep Oriental influence to the region.
Albania’s natural scenery is equally impressive. Known as the "Land of the Eagles," its mountains are majestic and its landscapes breathtaking.
Albania’s coastline stretches along the Adriatic Sea, with clear and beautiful beaches and waters.
However, due to weak infrastructure and lack of promotion, Albania’s tourism industry has not yet become a pillar of its economy, leaving it relatively unknown in the global tourism market.
In today’s increasingly globalized world, how a small country like Albania can find its place in international competition is a question worth exploring.
How it can use its strengths to achieve economic growth and how it can improve the living standards of its people are important challenges for the Albanian government.
Some argue that Albania should accelerate its integration into Europe, using EU funds and technical support to drive its development.
Others believe that Albania should maintain its independence and explore a development path that suits its own needs.
No matter how the future unfolds, Albania’s fate is in its own hands.
Whether this once-overlooked country can gain more attention on the global stage remains to be seen.
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