ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base
International Relations of Albania
**Albania's International Relations**
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### Overview
Albania's external relations concern its interactions with other governments and peoples. The country's foreign policy is managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is headquartered in Tirana.
### History
Albania declared its independence on 28 November 1912, becoming a sovereign state in southern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea.
### Foreign Policy
Since the collapse of communism in 1990, Albania has maintained a policy of complementarity, aiming to establish friendly relations with all countries. This approach is based on several key factors:
* **Geopolitical location**: Albania's strategic position in Southeast Europe allows it to maintain strong relationships with neighboring countries.
* **Population and diaspora**: The country's population and Albanian diaspora communities worldwide play a significant role in shaping its foreign policy.
* **Economic crisis**: Albania has sought to establish economic partnerships with other nations to mitigate the impact of regional crises.
### Diplomatic Relations
Albania has diplomatic relations with 113 countries, including:
* Germany
* United States
* Balkan countries (e.g., Kosovo, Macedonia)
* United Kingdom
* China
* France
These relationships are crucial to Albania's economic and political development.