Ukraine officially joins WTO

Ukraine has joined the World Trade Organisation, committing the country to economic reforms and opening up new trade channels. President Victor Yushchenko’s office has issued a statement saying a WTO membership protocol ratified by the country's parliamen

Ukraine becomes the 152nd member of the global trading community.

Its main trading partner, Russia, is the only major economy yet to join.

Ukraine will have veto power over Russia's entry, but may be eager to see Moscow bound by the same trade rules.