The Lao government is set to amend its legislation on drug prevention and control to incorporate electronic cigarettes into the list of prohibited substances. This decision comes in response to the escalating issue of e-cigarette addiction, particularly among the youth population in the country.
China’s ‘Love Heart Journey’ Offers Lifeline to Lao Children Battling Heart Disease

A group of five children, ranging from eight months to 12 years old, along with their parents, embarked on a journey from Laos to Kunming under the “Love Heart Journey” program. Facilitated by the Belt and Road Initiative, the initiative aims to provide free medical treatment for congenital heart disease in Kunming, China. The Laos-China Railway serves as the conduit for this life-changing endeavor.
Truce in Israel-Hamas War Extended by a Day, Minutes Before It Was Set to Expire

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel and Hamas on Thursday agreed to extend a temporary truce by another day minutes before it was set to expire, said Qatar, which has been mediating between the two sides.
Spike in Crimes During That Luang Festival, Authorities Report
Additional reporting by Chono Lapuekou
Hours after the conclusion of this year’s That Luang Festival, Vientiane authorities reported a series of security challenges that they faced during the three-day celebrations – 23 to 27 November.
Laos, Australia Ink Agreement on Human Rights Cooperation
In a significant stride towards promoting and safeguarding human rights, the Australian Human Rights Commission has inked an agreement with the Lao Government and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Sumatran Rhino Calf Born in Indonesia Adds to Endangered Species of Fewer Than 50 Animals

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) — A critically endangered Sumatran rhino was born on Indonesia’s western island of Sumatra on Saturday, the second Sumatran rhino born in the country this year and a welcome addition to a species that currently numbers fewer than 50 animals.
Laos Grapples with 25.2 Percent Inflation in November
Laos recorded a 25.2 percent inflation rate in November, marking a slight drop from the previous month.
ASEAN, China Officials Discuss Enhancing Connectivity Under ‘Belt and Road Initiative’

Officials from China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) gathered on 27 November, in Vientiane Capital to discuss enhancing connectivity under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).