Further set of rural development programmes for the period 2007-2013 agreed

On 20 February, 2008, the Rural Development Committee (consisting of representatives of the 27 Member States) gave a positive opinion to the Rural Development programmes of Italy (Molise), Romania, Spain (Andalucía, Aragón, Asturias, La Rioja and Comunidad Valenciana) and UK (Wales) for the financial period 2007-2013. These programmes are defined to guarantee infrastructure, create new income opportunities for rural regions, promote growth and fight unemployment. The Commission still has to formally adopt the programmes in the next weeks. The approval of the programmes for other countries and regions will follow in the coming months.