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.
Truce in Israel-Hamas War Extended by a Day, Minutes Before It Was Set to Expire

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).
Citizens of Five European Countries, Malaysia Can Enter China Without Visa From 1 December

BEIJING (AP) — China announced Friday that it will allow visa-free entry for citizens of five European countries and Malaysia as it tries to encourage more people to visit for business and tourism.
Harnessing the Power of Data to Combat Gender-Based Violence
*Op-ed by the UNFPA Regional Director for Asia & the Pacific, Mr. Pio Smith on International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women
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From informing policy and advocating for change to measuring progress on commitments, investing in quality and ethical data is a key component to preventing gender-based violence.