Long-term evolution of solar large-scale magnetic fields in relation to the local active phenomena is studied. The changes of the magnetic flux distribution are influenced by the horizontal transport of magnetized plasma. The whole system of magnetic field changes is interpreted as a global process which is controlled by the large-scale convective patterns. The large-scale horizontal velocity field of transporting motions is determined in various approaches with similar results. Regions with positive divergence in the field of horizontal flow field are found to be closely connected with the occurrence of solar active regions. The process of the horizontal flow was analysed by the “cork” method. The corks reveal a pattern of giant cells which are persistent for several solar rotations. These large cells are interpreted as giant convective elements. Occurrence of new strong magnetic flux in regions of positive divergence is then interpreted as a result of emergence of flux in the upflowing parts of that pattern.