Kolkata, June 6 (IANS): Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu said on Saturday his department has signed initial agreements with 20 states to jointly develop a company aimed at boosting railway infrastructure.

"We have signed MoUs with 20 states. Under the agreement, there will be a company jointly owned by the centre and the states. It will develop infrastructure and look into issues which the states think are important," he told media persons on the sidelines of an official function here.

Prabhu said the move is in sync with the centre's policy to empower the states.

He said the railways will collaborate with West Bengal for development of infrastructure in the state.

The railway minister said he will meet Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on the issue after she returns from Bangladesh.

"I have spoken to her this morning and will meet her once she returns from Bangladesh," he said.

The issue of the stalled metro project in Kolkata is also likely to be discussed in the upcoming meeting.