"The situation is peculiar specifically because Kallas is the honorary chairman and a member of the board of the opposition Reform Party, wrote Eesti Päevaleht (link in Estonian).

According to Kallas, however, he is prepared to be more actively involved with Rail Baltic, but he has not discussed what form this would take with Ratas.

"There have been talk that I could take some more active position in the Rail Baltic matter, yes," he said. "But we have not specifically discussed in what form, and this must be politically neutral and acceptable. Nothing more has currently been discussed. I am in any case prepared to be more actively involved in the Rail Baltic matter. I suppose we'll continue to discuss the matter at some point."

Head of the Prime Minister's Office Tanel Kiik stated in a written response that Ratas has consulted with many experts and also met with longtime Vice-President of the European Commission Siim Kallas regarding Rail Baltic. "The Prime Minister certainly sees opportunities for cooperation with Siim Kallas, who as former European Transport Commissioner is undoubtedly one of the best authorities on the Rail Baltic railway project," said Kiik.

There has been previous talk among politicians and officials that Kallas should have a spot on the council of the Rail Baltic Estonia holding company. The council of Rail Baltic Estonia OÜ currently consists of Anti Moppel, Agris Peedu and Illar Kaasik, while the company is headed by Indrek Orav.