Karins and Estonia's new PM assess progress of Rail Baltica project

  • 2021-01-27
  • LETA/TBT Staff

RIGA - Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins (New Unity) and Estonia's new Prime Minister Kaja Kallas in their first talks on Wednesday assessed the progress of the Rail Baltica project, LETA was told at the State Chancellery. 

Karins underlined the close relations between the two neighbor countries which are based on common values, similar historical experience and economic interests. 

The Latvian and Estonian premiers agreed on the geopolitical and economic significance of regional cooperation projects. While discussing the Rail Baltica project, Karins and Kallas noted the progress achieved so far on the project which has now reached the construction phase. Since EU funding is critical for the project's implementation, Karins voiced hope that the funding will be provided in line with the agreements reached in the European Council.

The prime ministers of the two countries also discussed synchronization of the Baltic states' power networks with continental Europe, noting its importance in ensuring the region's energy independence.

While discussing the fight against Covid-19, the Latvian premier stressed the importance of coordination and cooperation among the Baltic states, saying that cooperation must continue, especially because of the risks posed by new coronavirus variants. 

To follow epidemiological safety guidelines, the meeting of the two prime ministers took place via videolink. At the end of the conversation, Karins invited the Estonian colleague to visit Riga when the epidemiological situation improves. 

Estonia's new two-party coalition government of the Reform Party and the Center Party led by the chairperson of Reform, Kaja Kallas, took office on Tuesday.