Ljubljana - The government has decided to launch a free-of-charge testing campaign near border crossings with Italy. Rapid antigen testing will be available from Wednesday for commuters, students being schooled across the border and owners of property across the border.

The government said the testing would be available to all those who are allowed to cross the border without having to quarantine if they provide a negative coronavirus test.

The groups for which testing will be available are allowed to cross the border if they provide a negative PCR of rapid antigen test that is no older than seven days.

Better access to testing is "an important step to making it easier for the population along the border to go about their daily business".

Testing will be available free of charge in the towns of Škofije, Kobarid, Solkan, Fernetiči and Rateče every weekday between 7am and 7pm. After a week, the schedule will be adapted to address the demand at individual locations.

The government said in the press release that the decision followed great efforts by Helena Jaklitsch, the minister for Slovenians abroad, in cooperation with Heath Minister Janez Poklukar and Interior Minister Aleš Hojs.