Theoretical and Methodological Perspective

This chapter describes the study’s theoretical and methodological framework. The theory of realism has been applied to analyze the relations between Albania and China. Based on this theory, demographic asymmetry, geographical distance, and cultural differences have been taken into account. The ideological proximity between the two countries during the Cold War was later replaced by the structural divergences created by Albania’s pro-Western orientation after 1991. Through an interdisciplinary perspective, this study aims to explain ideological and political relations, internal disputes, and the pursuit of interests in foreign policy. The main methodological tool is qualitative political research. It presents arguments, synthesizes evidence, and systematically examines historical developments. In addition, a comparative approach is employed to analyze developments in Albania and China, thereby identifying similarities and differences in their societies and political systems.