Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone is set to participate in the Commemorative Summit for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation from 16-18 December in Tokyo, accepting an invitation from Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio.
Colombia Investigates the Killing of a Hmong American Comedian, Activist

BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Colombian authorities on Wednesday were investigating the alleged kidnapping and murder of a Hmong American comedian and activist who was found dead Monday in a wooded area of the northern city of Medellín.
New Protection Centers Opened in Laos for Survivors of Violence
New centers for survivors of violence opened in Bolikhamxay and Champasack provinces. These two new “Counseling and Protection Centers for Women and Children” are the country’s 5th and 6th protection hubs for survivors of violence to seek accommodation and shelter, counseling, psychosocial support, legal advice, and vocational training.
Newly Elected Thai Lawmaker Sentenced to 6 Years for Defaming Monarchy

BANGKOK (AP) — A court in Thailand convicted and sentenced a recently elected lawmaker Wednesday to six years in prison for defaming the monarchy under a controversial law that guards the royal institution.
Lao People’s Army Museum Unveils New Face After Renovation
The Lao People’s Army History Museum in Vientiane Capital reopened its doors to the public on 13 December after undergoing extensive renovations, marking a major transformation for the historical institution.
Thai Police Seize Record Haul of 50 Million Methamphetamine Tablets Near Border With Myanmar

BANGKOK (AP) — Thai police have seized what is being called a record haul of methamphetamine tablets in the western province of Kanchanaburi, close to the Myanmar border.
Alarming Road Accident Statistics Prompt Stringent Measures for New Year Safety
As the year draws to a close, the country grapples with a somber reality. More than 800 lives were lost and nearly 1,000 people were injured in road accidents from January to November.
ASEAN-Israel Dialogue Gains Momentum Amidst Critical Geopolitical Dynamics

As Laos gears up to take the helm of the ASEAN chairmanship in 2024, eyes turn to the potential impact on regional and global alliances.
The country will play a crucial role in steering the regional bloc’s agenda and priorities, and the ASEAN-Israel dialogue, long set to deepen economic and cultural exchanges, has now gained momentum.