Six reasons why Ukraine matters to the United Kingdom

Reason 1: it is the largest country wholly in Europe, has a population of more than 45mn people and borders four member-States of the European Union.

Reason 2: it is the most democratic country in the Commonwealth of Independent States, having held four free and fair national elections since 2004.

Reason 3: it is a rapidly growing market.  UK companies exported £545mn of goods and services there in 2009 and have invested $2.376 billion there since 1992. The UK is the 6th largest foreign investor in Ukraine.

Reason 4: more and more Ukrainians are travelling to the UK, which continues to welcome genuine tourists and business visitors.

Reason 5: Ukraine is a valued friend and partner of the UK.  We co-operate extensively and productively in international organisations such as the United Nations, the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe and the Council of Europe.

Reason 6: the long-term stability, well-being and prosperity of Ukraine is therefore a vital UK national interest.