European policymakers and industry leaders have called for stable, long-term EU funding to ensure the delivery of cross-border rail infrastructure, as momentum builds behind the Rail Baltica scheme, RB Rail AS, the company managing Rail Baltica, said on its website on May 5.

Rail Baltica is a major EU-backed railway linking Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania with Poland and the wider European network. The costs of the project are expected to balloon up to €23bn.

The fully electrified, standard-gauge line is designed for speeds of up to 249 km/h, cutting travel times and improving both passenger and freight transport. It is also seen as strategically important for military mobility and regional security.

Part of the EU’s Trans-European Transport Network, the project aims to strengthen economic integration, boost trade and connect the Baltic region more closely with the rest of Europe.

Speaking on May 5 at a high-level forum in Madrid, attended by around 200 stakeholders from government and the rail sector, participants stressed that future connectivity across the continent will depend on predictable financing under the EU’s next multiannual budget for 2028–2034. Particular emphasis was placed on strengthening the Connecting Europe Facility and its military mobility component.

The event brought together officials from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania alongside Spanish authorities and industry representatives. It was organised by ICEX Spain Trade and Investment, MAFEX and RB Rail AS, with support from Spain’s transport ministry.

Baltic officials echoed the strategic importance of the line, which will connect the region to Central and Southern Europe while enhancing both economic competitiveness and security. Kuldar Leis said completing the main route by 2030 remains a shared goal, warning that consistent financing is critical.

Industry representatives also urged greater certainty. Marko Kivila said the project already draws on a pan-European supply chain but requires stronger political backing and continuity of funding to accelerate construction.

Discussions focused on interoperability, procurement standards and the role of European industry. Spanish rail expertise – particularly in multi-gauge systems – was highlighted as a competitive strength, while companies from across the EU are increasingly involved in delivery.