The Policy of the Balkan Countries towards Albania and the Balkan Pact (1934)

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the political situation in the Balkan and the influence of the European Great Powers to guarantee peace and stability in the region. It is focused on the diplomacy of the neighboring countries towards Albania concerning its participation in the Balkan Pact, signed in Athens, on February 9, 1934. At first, Italy put under pressure the Balkan states, particularly Greece, that in case of Albania admission to the Pact, their relations undermined. Rome insisted on maintaining its dominance on Albania considering it an Italian protectorate. Secondly, the Balkan neighbors refused to invite the Albanian delegation sign the Pact of the Balkan Agreement due to its sine quo non condition on the solution of minority’s issues. The Balkan Entente between Romania, Yugoslavia, Greece and Turkey intended to foster cooperation and their economic and political integration. Also its purpose was to ensure the territorial integrity and the political independence of the Balkan countries, thus the geopolitical status quo in the region.

DOI: 10.5901/ajis.2014.v3n3p535