Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Sea, Transport, and Infrastructure, Oleg Butković, visited the Dubrovnik-Neretva County on July 26. In Dubrovnik, he held a meeting with representatives of county port authorities, and then toured the completed works on the reconstruction of part of the coast and the construction of a pier in the Cavtat port.

Butković expressed satisfaction with the completion of the works, emphasizing that the renovation of the coastal infrastructure and the construction of the new pier in Cavtat port achieved significant results. The project was implemented by the Dubrovnik-Neretva County Port Authority, and its value exceeds 5 million euros. The Ministry of the Sea, Transport, and Infrastructure co-financed the project with 4.4 million euros.

“This renewal on the Croatian coast, which we started a few years ago, includes investments in the renovation of waterfronts and the construction of new piers and breakwaters, with a total value of over 400 million euros. This was achieved thanks to European funds and national resources,” said Butković, adding that the project in Cavtat contributes to the change in appearance and functionality of that part of Dubrovnik.

The director of the county Port Authority, Antun Banovac, also expressed satisfaction with the completed works and the opening of the waterfront: “This was a demanding and expensive project. The works were carried out in the center of the place, and with the patience of the citizens, the cooperation of contractors, the Municipality, the County, and the Ministry, the investment was completed in three financial years.”

County Prefect Nikola Dobroslavić emphasized the success of the realized works: “This project is one of the 13 port infrastructure projects we have been implementing in recent years. Ahead of us are still Perna and Prigradica, and today we discussed financing those projects. The Minister promised that the financing will be secured in the next few months.”

Minister Butković highlighted that the Dubrovnik-Neretva County leads in the number and value of projects. “I congratulate them on that. We have achieved many new piers, breakwaters, and landings. As a maritime country, we have always been oriented towards the sea. The Government and the Ministry have initiated and realized a major investment cycle that continues with a new public call, in which 130 million euros are available.”

Additionally, Butković emphasized the importance of cooperation between local and state authorities and joint work on major infrastructure projects. He particularly highlighted that the Dubrovnik-Neretva County is one of the leading in terms of the number of infrastructure projects and mentioned other projects such as the construction of the Pelješac Bridge and the Kozjak tunnel, which will further improve traffic connectivity and quality of life in the region.

Director Banovac pointed out that the works in Cavtat were carried out despite the challenges that come with working in urban centers and praised the patience of the local population and the efficiency of all involved parties. “This is proof that we can achieve great things with joint efforts,” said Banovac.

In Cavtat, efforts to preserve local tradition and integrate new infrastructure solutions into the historical context of the place were particularly highlighted during the works. “The reconstruction of the coast and the construction of the pier were carried out with great respect for the cultural heritage of Cavtat,” added Banovac.

Minister Butković concluded the visit by announcing new projects and continued investments in maritime infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of further utilizing funds from European funds and national resources for the development of coastal infrastructure. “These investments are crucial for the future economic development and quality of life of our citizens,” Butković concluded.