Brussels, 14/01/2002 (Agence Europe) - On Monday, the European Commission approved a rural development programme for the German Land of Bavaria under the EU's Leader + programme for 2001-2006. Bavaria will receive some EUR 116.2 million in funding, of which the EU will be providing EUR 58.1 million, with EUR 16.9 million coming from the private sector. Forty-five Local Action Groups will receive funding to help them create fair and healthy living and working conditions, create or safeguard employment possibilities for young people and women and enhance the competitiveness of rural zones.