PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) — An outspoken critic of Cambodia’s government who was badly hurt by assailants four months ago has been arrested on a defamation complaint brought by a Cabinet member for comments he posted on Facebook.
A Blue Legacy for Children’s Rights: UNICEF Laos’ 50th Anniversary
It was 1973, and the peace agreement between the Royal Lao Government and the communist Pathet Lao marked the end of the Lao civil war and set the stage for the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) to step into Laos.
Khammouane Health Authorities Cracks Down on Steroid-Infused Traditional Remedy

The Ministry of Health in Khammouane Province initiated a crackdown on a traditional remedy after the discovery of steroids in over 800 bottles of black liquid. The operation took place on 4 January, following an investigation by provincial health authorities targeting traditional medicine shops in Thakhek and Hinboun districts.
Officials Discuss Establishment of People’s Prosecutor’s Office in Golden Triangle SEZ
Officials from the Office of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor convened on 5 January on the establishment of the People’s Prosecutor’s Office within the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bokeo Province. They agreed to report the decision to the government authorities for further consideration and action.
Vietnam Commits to Enhancing Education Ties with Laos, Offers Scholarships

Vietnam is set to award 1200 scholarships to Lao students in 2024, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh announced during the 6th session of the Laos-Vietnam Intergovernmental Committee.
North Korea Again Fires Near the Sea Border With the South, as Its Leader’s Sister Mocks Seoul

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea again fired artillery shells near its tense sea boundary with the South on Sunday, as the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un mocked the South’s ability to detect its weapons launches.
New Salary Requirements in UK Family Visa Create Hurdles for Lao-British Couples
In a recent announcement, the British Government has set a new salary threshold for foreigners applying for a family visa. This move is sending shockwaves through couples across the world looking to tie the knot with their British partners and embark on a life in the United Kingdom.
South Korea Evacuates Border Islands Yeonpyeong, Baengnyeong as North Korea Fires Into Sea

Residents of two South Korean islands have been ordered to evacuate as North Korea fires more than 200 artillery rounds into the sea near a tensely defended maritime border, according to military officials.