[6][7] Berisha viewed the existence of an independent Macedonia as important to Albanian interests in keeping apart Greece and Serbia (then part of FR Yugoslavia), and to preventing any possible encirclement of Albania.

[3] Berisha's recognition move resulted in criticism within Albania by the political opposition for not extracting concessions over the status of the Albanian minority in Macedonia.

[3] Berisha attempted through limited influence to encourage the Albanian minority to engage with the Macedonian political system and to place their efforts toward stabilising the country.

[3] Unlike Berisha, the stances of the political opposition Socialist Party and Democratic Alliance closely resembled the Greek position on the Macedonian naming dispute.

[3] Issues over the position and handling of the Albanian community in the Macedonian state continued to hamper the ability of both countries leadership to create good relations.

[3] Macedonia's admission into European organisations and a lessening of tensions in the name dispute with Greece gave it minimal incentive to seek closer relations with Albania.

[3] There was pressure directed to the government of Albania by internal political forces to react strongly, however, though displeased with events its response was restrained.

[3] After an earthquake struck Albania (26 November 2019), North Macedonia sent €100,000 in financial aid,[10] as well as drones with thermal cameras to search for survivors under the rubble.