In his address, the Prime Minister recalled a time when many local roads were still unpaved, noting that older generations in particular are aware of the importance of modern transport infrastructure. “Today, roads are essential infrastructure for everyday life,” he said, adding that Slovenia could have completed many infrastructure projects earlier if it had made better use of the development opportunities available after independence.
At the opening of the reconstructed Žalna–Velika Loka road, he thanked Mayor Peter Verlič and everyone who had contributed to the project. He stressed that such investments not only shorten journey times but above all improve road safety, reduce vehicle maintenance costs and enhance residents’ quality of life.
He also underlined the importance of decentralisation and more efficient management of public funds. “Every euro is yours; it’s taxpayers’ money,” he said, noting that a relatively small share of Slovenia’s gross domestic product is spent at local level.
He said the Government would seek to increase this share, arguing that funds are spent more efficiently and transparently when decisions are taken closer to the people. “When money is spent closer to the people, there is also greater oversight,” he stressed.
The Prime Minister also said that the planned systemic changes, as set out in the coalition agreement, were intended to establish clearer development priorities, strengthen local self-government and improve living conditions across Slovenia. The aim is to secure more investment in roads and other infrastructure and ensure that a greater share of public funds is spent at local level, closer to the people who contribute them.