Brussels, 27/03/2002 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday, the European Commission approved a Leader + rural development programme for the German Land of Hesse, with an overall funding package of EUR 23.4 billion for 2001-2006, of which EUR 8.2 million will come from the EU. The priorities of the programme (which will be implemented by eight Local Action Groups) are improving the economic situation and living conditions in rural areas, raising competitiveness and protecting and conserving the...