Ukraine Designated As Free Market
21 February 2006

On February 17, the United States announced that it had designated the Ukraine as a free market economy.  The European Union did the same in December.  The Associated Press quotes US Commerce Secretary David Sampson as explaining that the designation was granted due to “very significant, fundamental reforms within the economic processes in Ukraine.” The designation is symbolically important as Ukraine attempts to join the World Trade Organization.  The first parliamentary elections to occur since President Viktor Yushchenko attained power will occur this March.