Estonia's Infrastructure Minister Kuldar Leis announced that there is an agreement with Latvian officials that the Rail Baltic project, a significant transport link between the Baltic States, will be completed by 2030. While Estonia is committed to finishing its section of the project by this deadline, there are ongoing concerns about Latvia's ability to complete its segment due to funding shortages and construction delays.

The funding situation is particularly challenging for Latvia, which reportedly has enough resources only for the construction of a 50-kilometer section leading towards Lithuania. This stark contrast to Estonia's progress highlights the disparities between the two countries' preparedness for this vital infrastructure project. The Estonian parliament’s special committee on the state budget met with Latvian politicians and representatives from the European Court of Auditors, raising doubts about whether the first phase of the Rail Baltic could be feasibly completed within the planned timeframe, primarily due to the slow pace of construction on the Latvian side.

Minister Leis emphasized the need for stronger project management and coordination between the countries involved, indicating that governance should ensure more effective collaboration. He also pointed out the necessity for Estonia and Latvia to establish at least a bilateral agreement to secure mutual confidence in progressing the project, particularly as Estonia currently awaits 1.2 billion euros in funding to complete its portion of the Rail Baltic initiative. The completion of this project is crucial not only for enhancing transportation in the region but also for boosting economic ties and connectivity among the Baltic States.