Diplomatic Relations of Albania with the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (1925-1928)

The purpose of the research paper is to characterize the diplomatic relations between Albania and the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes from 1925 to 1928 and to determine the influence of Rome on Albania-Yugoslavia relations. The scientific novelty. The dynamics of diplomatic efforts for cooperation between Tirana and Belgrade, as well as the moments of their political crises, such as the Gjurashkoviç question in 1927, are presented. The role of Italy as a neighbor whose diplomatic activity played a significant role in diplomatic relations between Tirana and Belgrade in 1925-1928 is analyzed. Peculiarities of Albanian diplomacy headed by Zogu and its ability to maneuver in relations with Rome and Belgrade, while overcoming internal crises and striving to preserve the state’s sovereignty, are uncovered. The authors have identified all the most important factors that determined the diplomatic relations between Tirana and Belgrade. Conclusions. Diplomatic relations between Tirana and Belgrade in 1925-1928 developed depending on various internal and external factors. A characteristic feature of Albania-Yugoslavia relations, as in all previous periods, was mutual distrust and constant mutual accusations regarding several sensitive issues: Shën Naumi and Vermosh (1925), the uprising of Loro Caka (1926), the First and Second Tirana Pacts (1926-1927), and especially, the Gjurashkoviç question (1927). However, the main factor in Albania-Yugoslavia relations was Italy, whose active diplomacy was decisive in those relations. As a result, despite Belgrade’s restoration of Zogu’s power in 1924, performing to their advantage, Rome’s influence forced the Albanian state to distance itself from the Kingdom of Yugoslavia with reorientation towards Italy. An important factor in diplomatic relations between Tirana and Belgrade was the issue of the relocation of the Albanian population from Kosovo and other Albanian territories, as well as implementing of state violence and terror by the Kingdom of Yugoslavia against Albanians. That occurred due to the fact that while official Tirana and Albanian intellectuals raised their voices in defense of Albanians in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, officials in Belgrade accused Tirana of interfering in their internal affairs.