2008 marked important developments for Albania and the Albanians. Of particular and historical significance are two events: Albania received its invitation to join NATO and the independence of Kosovo. Both of these historical developments are ripe with opportunity to boost the strategic weight of the Albanian factor in the Balkans.

Like never before, the year drawing to a close and the new year approaching are closely linked with each other in terns of Albanian policy, economy and society. In April 2008 Albania received its invitation to join NATO, while in less than three months, in April of next year, it is expected that the Alliance will admit Albania as a member.

2008 was an important year of decision-making and developments for the Balkans, including Albania. With Kosovo’s independence, the political map of the Balkans changed. Kosovo’s independence is expected to breathe more oxygen into political cooperation, and especially into economic cooperation in the Balkans. However, beyond the political aspect, the independence of Kosovo is tantamount to extending the Albanian market in the Balkans.