Politics

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...

Vientiane Court Hands Life Sentences to Former Bank Employees in Major Corruption Cases

A court in Vientiane gave life sentences to several former bank employees for corruption....

Laos, Kazakhstan Seek New Railway Links to Expand Trade

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

India, Pakistan Trade Strikes as Kashmir Tensions Spiral Toward Conflict

The conflict between India and Pakistan has entered a dangerous new phase, with both sides reporting missile strikes, drone incursions, and military engagements across...

Laos, Switzerland Strengthen Efforts to Improve Dam Safety

Laos and Switzerland have reaffirmed their commitment to safer hydropower development with the successful convening of the Steering Committee meeting for the Dam Safety...

First Lao Student in Morocco Wins Top University Award

Khanpangna “Eno” Khounsy, a 24-year-old student from Laos, has made history by becoming the first Lao national to receive the prestigious Prix d’Excellence from...

Decades After the Bombing, Laos Still Struggles: Now With Less Help

On 3 May, a 500-pound bomb was detonated in Soplao village, Huameuang district, Houaphanh Province.  The device, identified as an MK82—a type of aerial bomb...

Singapore Ruling Party Wins Election in Landslide

By Satish Cheney/AFP - Voters have handed Singapore's long-time ruling party a landslide election victory, offering Prime Minister Lawrence Wong a clear mandate to...

United Nations Rights Review Applauds Laos’ Engagement but Flags Deep Concerns

On 29 April, the United Nations Human Rights Council commended Laos for collaborative participation in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), but fundamental rights issues...