New Delhi, Nov 24 (IANS): Indian Railways Monday said they were looking forward to collaborate with French companies in the field of safety, customer service and high-speed train services.

Inviting the French companies to 'open shop' in India, Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu said: "Let's find solutions and prepare completely actionable areas supported by corporate entities and set up shop here."

Addressing a seminar on Indo-French railways, Prabhu sought co-operation in areas of safety, customer service and building a high-speed train network.

"How to make the platform look better, how to make tickets bookings smoother and improve communication network for commuters through various technology. So at all these levels you can think of some co-operation," Prabhu said.

The Minister added that the railways are planning to collaborate in the area of developing high-speed train network.

"There are premium commuters who are ready to pay a high price and want to reach their destination faster. They want better amenities and they are ready to pay for it. We are thinking of a separate kind of network such as a high-speed train or bullet train," Prabhu said.

The minister added that his government is trying to make the rail network in India globally competitive and compatible with global standards.