Ambassador Mahinder Singh made a familiarisation visit to Barinas, located in the Los Llanos region (lowlands) and also the Andean state of Tachira from 20th to 23rd May 2013. The purpose was to share Malaysia’s experience in development and enhance bilateral relations. During the visit Ambassador Mahinder Singh held meetings with the Governor of Tachira, Mr. Jose Vielma Mora, the Deputy Governor of Barinas, Mrs. Keisy Gomez and the Rector of the National Experimental University of Tachira (UNET), Mr. Jose Vicente Sanchez. The areas identified include oil palm sector, exchange of expertise in tropical farming and programmes on the eradication of poverty. He encouraged bilateral visits by interested groups to see first-hand the results of Malaysia’s development. Meetings were also arranged with the Chamber of Commerce in both states.