International Cooperation

Laos, China Launch Digital Payment Link For Cross-Border Transactions

Laos and China have launched a new digital payment link that allows Chinese visitors to pay Lao businesses using China’s digital yuan, without needing to exchange cash into Lao kip. The system connects China’s digital yuan, known as e-CNY, with Laos’ domestic QR payment network. A Chinese visitor can now...

Timor-Leste Moves to Join Cluster Munition Ban at Vientiane Conference

Timor-Leste has taken a formal step toward joining the Convention on Cluster Munitions, signing...

Laos Warns of Lasting Toll at Vientiane Meeting as Cluster Munition Use Rises Worldwide

Laos is hosting the Convention on Cluster Munitions’ Third Review Conference 16 years after...

Laos, Kazakhstan Seek New Railway Links to Expand Trade

Laos and Kazakhstan are exploring new railway and logistics links that could open a...

Thongloun Pushes Multilateralism at SCO Summit, Deepens India, Kyrgyzstan Ties

President Thongloun Sisoulith attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Plus Meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan,...

Singapore Expands Foreign Worker Source Countries, Adds Laos, Bhutan, Cambodia

Starting 1 June, Singapore will allow employers to hire workers from Laos, Bhutan, and Cambodia for work permit roles, expanding the list of non-traditional...

Laos Extends Visa-Free Stay for Japanese Tourists to 30 Days

Starting 1 June, Japanese travelers will be able to stay in Laos without a visa for up to 30 days, doubling the previous limit...

EuroCham Laos Reviews 2024 Progress, Elects New Board at Annual Meeting

The European Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Laos (ECCIL EuroCham Laos) held its Annual General Meeting on 22 May, at Amari Vientiane. The event...

Southeast Asian Nations Express ‘Deep Concern’ Over US Tariffs

By Rebecca BAILEY and Isabelle LEONG/AFP - Southeast Asian leaders expressed "deep concern" over US tariffs Tuesday, as they held a summit with China...

Vientiane, Kunming Hospitals Partner to Boost Cardiac Care in Laos

On 26 May, Mahosot Hospital in Vientiane Capital renewed its partnership with Fuwai Cardiovascular Hospital of Kunming, China, to enhance cardiac care in Laos. The...

Laos, Malaysia Open New Rail-Sea Trade Corridor

Laos and Malaysia have launched a new trade corridor to improve regional logistics and strengthen economic ties, providing a direct route from Laos to...