29.08.2025
The construction and financing of Rail Baltica was one of the central topics at a joint session of the Estonian and Latvian governments on Wednesday. Ministers from both countries emphasized that railways are not only an economic lifeline, but also a strategic necessity.
"The completion of the Rail Baltica main route by 2030 is our common and strategic goal – it is not just a transport project, but an investment in the future of the entire region. The connection will increase trade, improve passenger mobility and strengthen military mobility, which is both economically and security-wise inevitable in the current geopolitical situation. The Baltic states must jointly demonstrate that we are committed to implementing the project in order to secure funding from European Union funds for the completion of the railway in the future," said Minister of Infrastructure Kuldar Leis.
The project has long relied on the European Union's Connectivity Facility (CEF), which is set to almost double to €51,5 billion in the bloc's next seven-year budget. Around a third of this – €17,7 billion – is earmarked for military mobility needs, reflecting the growing intertwining of civilian infrastructure and security needs on NATO's eastern flank.
According to the Minister of Infrastructure, Estonia can enter the negotiations in a good position. "Approximately 100 kilometers of the Rail Baltica route in Estonia are already under construction and 200 kilometers have been covered by contracts. Next year, construction activities will take place in all Estonian counties, which shows that the Rail Baltica project is progressing well and we are on schedule to complete the first phase by 2030."
Rail Baltica has become a symbol of the Baltic states' decision to move their development westward, away from Moscow's sphere of influence. Alongside the main line, the expansion of regional rail connections was also discussed. The recently launched line between Tallinn, Tartu, Riga and Vilnius has proven unexpectedly popular, and ministers expressed hope that the long-awaited direct line between Tartu and Riga could soon follow.
Currently, the joint statement is primarily intended to reassure Brussels of the unity of the Baltic states in a region where transport policy has become an integral part of national defense.
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