Latvian Economics Minister Viktor Valainis has expressed support for Prime Minister Evika Siliņa's decision to commence service audits related to the 'Rail Baltica' railway project. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that future project implementations avoid deficiencies and are based on decisions with clear added value. Valainis raised concerns regarding the project's execution thus far and highlighted the necessity for greater scrutiny of procurement processes, indicating that issues arising from seemingly minor violations have led to disqualifications of other bidders from procurement bids worth several hundred million euros.

The minister noted that while such decisions may be legally justified, they do not always align with common sense or practical outcomes. He warned that this could result in the state overpaying significant amounts for the project, thereby undermining its financial efficacy. Valainis underscored the need for transparency and a reformative approach in managing these procurement processes to ensure fair competition and transparency.

Valainis stated that the ultimate goal will only be achieved when there are clear guarantees of systemic changes in how the project is managed. He suggested that accountable measures should be taken against officials if necessary to ensure that the project's objectives are met in an efficient and economically sound manner. This call for systemic change reflects a broader concern within the Latvian government about ensuring the success of major infrastructure projects and the proper management of public funds.