ABSTRACT
UKRAINE gained its independence from the USSR in 1991. It has since concluded a Partnership and Co-operation Agreement with the European Union (EU), which entered into force in 1998, and hopes to see this eventually replaced with an association agreement. It is also a recipient of financial assistance from the EU under the Technical Assistance to the Commonwealth of Independent States programme, and in 1999 was the focus of an EU common strategy. This was designed to support the democratic and economic transition process in Ukraine; ensure co-operation in meeting common challenges in the areas of stability and security in Europe, the environment, energy and nuclear safety; assist Ukraine’s integration into the European and world economies; and enhance co-operation in the field of justice and home affairs.
