Ukraine is situated in the east of European continent and is the largest state of Europe. The total area of Ukraine is 603,700 square kilometers. 95% of the land*is flat and the rest of it is mountainous. The Carpathians in the west and the Crimean Mountains in the south make up 5%. Ukraine is washed by the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, where it has very important ports. The major rivers are-the Dnieper, the Dniester, the Bug and the Donets. The country is known for its mild climate and attractive scenery, with numerous lakes, rivers, thick forests, vast plains and forested mountains, but first of all it is known for its rich black soils.

The geographical position of Ukraine is very favourable for the development of its relations with the other countries of Europe, as well as with the countries throughout the world. It borders on the Russian Federation, Belarus, Poland, Moldova, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania. The population of Ukraine is more than 48 million, some 65% of whom live in the cities. The capital is Kyiv.

Ukrainian is the official language of the state. Other languages are Russian, Tartarian, Polish. Christianity is the main religion in Ukraine (over 90%), Muslims make up 8.2 per cent. The Moslem University was opened in the city of Donetsk (East of Ukraine). The term "Ukraine" was first mentioned in 12 century manuscripts, but the first state on the territory of modern Ukraine was established by the Scythians in the region to the north of the Black Sea. The Scythian State was formed in 7 century BC and lasted for more than four centuries. In the 9 century Slavonic tribes inhabiting this territory united to form the powerful state of Kyivan Rus. But in the 13 century Kyivan Rus split up into several principalities. After long centuries of subjugation the independent Ukrainian State was proclaimed on August 24, 1991. The Constitution of Ukraine was adopted by the Supreme Council (Verkhovna Rada) in June 1996. The Ukrainian currency, the hryvnia (UAH), was introduced in September 1996.

The status of Ukraine is the Republic. The President is the head of the state, the Prime Minister is the head of the Government.

The flag of Ukraine has two horizontal stripes - blue and yellow, the coat of arms (the Trident) features a design that dates from the late 900's.

Ukraine has many industrial raw materials. It also is one of the largest agricultural countries in Europe. The climate of Ukraine is favourable for animal husbandry, especially for cattle-, swine- and sheep-farming. Wheat, rye, corn, buckwheat, beets, potatoes, flax, and hemp are cultivated on its fertile fields.

Ukraine is the member of many international organizations as United Nations, International Monetary Fund, World Health Organization, UNESCO, etc.