In a time when global economic alliances are being reshaped, Albanians have voiced a clear preference for stronger trade and investment relations with Western partners — particularly the United States and the European Union. According to the latest Geo Power survey, published by Newton Research Europe, a significant majority of Albanian citizens support deepening the country’s economic ties with the West rather than reducing them.
The findings highlight Albania’s consistent pro-Western orientation, reflecting both the population’s trust in Western economies and their belief that integration with the U.S. and the EU is vital for long-term national growth and stability.
Strong Trust in Western Economic Partnerships
The survey revealed that only 25% of Albanians support the idea of reducing economic dependence on the United States, while an overwhelming majority believe that the U.S. remains an essential economic and political partner. This puts Albania in line with countries like Kosovo and Georgia, where public opinion also favors maintaining and expanding cooperation with Washington.
In contrast, neighboring and regional countries show greater skepticism. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, for example, 61% of respondents said they would support lowering their country’s economic dependence on the U.S., while 57% of Ukrainians expressed a similar sentiment. Serbia and Moldova, meanwhile, displayed more divided opinions, revealing ongoing ambivalence about their strategic economic alignments.
The data suggest that Albania stands out as one of the most Western-oriented countries in the region, both in perception and in aspiration.
Pro-European Sentiment Remains Extremely High
When asked about relations with the European Union, the results were even more striking. Only 23% of Albanians believe that their country should reduce economic reliance on the EU, while a solid 73% reject any such idea. This places Albania at the top of the list for support toward European economic integration, far above the regional average.
This sentiment underscores the deep-rooted public support for EU membership, a goal that has shaped Albania’s foreign policy and economic reforms for decades. The data also show that Albanians view the European Union not merely as a trade partner, but as a long-term anchor for stability, investment, and modernization.
A Strategic Choice Anchored in Values and Opportunity
Experts suggest that this consistent Western alignment reflects both historical experience and economic pragmatism. Over the past 30 years, Western nations have been the main investors and donors in Albania’s development — from infrastructure and energy projects to education and governance reforms. The strong pro-American and pro-European sentiment also demonstrates that Albanians associate Western partnerships with transparency, rule of law, and higher living standards.
The results come at a time when global polarization and the reconfiguration of supply chains are prompting smaller nations to reconsider their alliances. Yet for Albanians, the path appears clear: closer ties with the United States and the European Union remain both a strategic and emotional priority.
Regional Implications and Broader Context
The contrast between Albania’s results and those of other Balkan and Eastern European countries highlights a regional divide in perceptions of Western influence. While some nations express caution toward economic dependency, Albania’s population seems to embrace it as a pathway to growth and modernization.
Analysts note that such attitudes could play a crucial role in shaping foreign investment policies, trade agreements, and regional cooperation initiatives. Albania’s willingness to deepen ties with Western economies may strengthen its geopolitical positioning within the Western Balkans and accelerate its EU accession process.
Moreover, these results could encourage American and European investors to expand their operations in Albania, seeing the country as a stable and welcoming partner in the region — both politically and economically.
Conclusion: Albania’s Western Vision Remains Firm
The Geo Power survey paints a clear picture of Albania’s national sentiment and direction. The overwhelming support for the United States and the European Union confirms that Albanians view their country’s future as deeply intertwined with Western values and institutions.
While economic challenges and political reforms remain on the horizon, the will of the people is evident: Albania’s progress, prosperity, and democratic future are best secured through stronger integration and cooperation with its Western allies.