Laos welcomed over 1.2 million tourists in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 28 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, which saw around 1.1 million visitors.
Six Decades of Tension: Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute Might Head to International Court

Cambodia is escalating a decades-old border dispute with Thailand to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), following the death of a Cambodian soldier in a late-May clash near the ancient Preah Vihear Temple. The move marks the most serious flare-up between the two neighbors since the deadly confrontations of 2008–2011.
Tensions reignited on 28 May when gunfire broke out around 5:45 AM in the disputed Emerald Triangle area, where Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani Province meets Cambodia’s Preah Vihear Province. One Cambodian soldier was killed, the first fatality in over a decade, according to Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence.
Each side blamed the other. Cambodia claimed its troops were ambushed, while Thai forces said they responded to gunfire. The clash triggered a rapid military build-up on both sides and raised fears of a wider confrontation.
Despite the incident, both governments moved quickly to prevent further escalation. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet held direct talks hours after the incident, vowing to prevent further escalation.
Both leaders emphasized that neither country wanted the conflict to continue.
On 29 May, military leaders from both nations convened in Kap Choeng District, Surin Province, Thailand. The session concluded with joint agreements aimed at de-escalating tensions, including commitments to resolve the issue through the JBC and to maintain non-confrontational positions along the disputed border.
Cambodia’s Hun Manet, then on an official trip to Tokyo, assured the public that armed conflict served no one’s interest, especially the troops on the front lines.
Cambodia’s Strategic Escalation to International Law
Despite diplomatic progress and apparent de-escalation, Cambodia announced on 2 June its intention to move forward with its initial plan to pursue international legal action before the ICJ.
Prime Minister Hun Manet’s declaration that Cambodia would pursue ICJ arbitration regardless of Thailand’s agreement represented a fundamental shift from bilateral to multilateral dispute resolution.
The move marked a strategic shift from bilateral to international arbitration, echoing Cambodia’s past legal wins at the ICJ in 1962 and 2013, both favoring its claim to Preah Vihear Temple.
By 4 June, Cambodia had formally filed its ICJ case, citing recent tensions and prior provocations, such as a February incident involving Cambodian women singing near the Thai border, which sparked diplomatic protests from Bangkok.
Thailand’s Firm Rejection of International Arbitration
Thailand’s response came swiftly and decisively following a cabinet meeting specifically convened to address the border crisis.
Thai Government Spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap announced on 4 June that Thailand would not refer the dispute to the ICJ, instead emphasizing a commitment to peaceful resolution exclusively through diplomatic dialogue and existing bilateral mechanisms.
Thai officials clarified that discussions should be grounded in existing legal agreements, satellite imagery analysis, and historical documentation, suggesting confidence in their evidence base for bilateral negotiations. At the same time, they emphasized the importance of accurate public communication to prevent misunderstandings that could inflame nationalist tensions in both countries, recognizing the domestic political risks of appearing to concede to international pressure.
Meanwhile, Thailand bolstered its border defenses. On 5 June, the Ministry of Interior ordered heightened security and emergency planning in seven provinces, including Trat, Chanthaburi, Sa Kaeo, Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Surin, and Buriram. Surveillance, public awareness campaigns, and rapid-response systems were put in place, especially in high-risk zones like Chong Bok, near the recent clash site.
Cambodia, for its part, maintained that its troop movements were defensive, not aggressive, and within sovereign territory.
On 7 June, Thailand adjusted border crossing hours without prior notice. A day later, Cambodia responded by slashing visa stays for Thai nationals from 60 to 7 days. Thailand immediately imposed reciprocal limits on Cambodian visitors. Thai officials have said the restrictions will remain “until the situation improves.”
Military commanders from both countries reached a de-escalation agreement on 8 June, committing to pull back forces to their respective positions as of early 2024. As part of the deal, Cambodia agreed to fill in defensive trenches and restore damaged terrain. Joint border surveys began immediately.
On 9 June, Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defense clarified that its troop repositioning was a tactical adjustment within its own territory, not a territorial withdrawal.
Sophisticated Dual-Track Diplomacy
Despite diverging on ICJ arbitration, both countries agreed to proceed with a Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) meeting on 14 June in Phnom Penh. However, Cambodia clarified that the four contested sites under ICJ review would be excluded from the JBC agenda.
This dual-track diplomacy, legal arbitration on specific flashpoints and bilateral dialogue on broader border management, reflects an effort to contain tensions without abandoning Cambodia’s push for legal clarity.
Decades of Dispute
The roots of the conflict stretch back to colonial-era boundary maps. In 1962, the ICJ ruled Preah Vihear Temple belonged to Cambodia, but ambiguity over surrounding territory persisted. Tensions simmered until 2008, when UNESCO named the temple a World Heritage Site, a move that inflamed nationalist sentiment in Thailand and sparked armed clashes.
Between 2008 and 2011, over two dozen people were killed and thousands displaced. A second ICJ ruling in 2013 reaffirmed Cambodia’s sovereignty over the temple’s vicinity, but Thailand rejected the court’s jurisdiction over adjacent land, insisting on bilateral solutions.
From 2011 to 2024, the border remained relatively calm, aided by regular JBC meetings and direct military communications. The 28 May incident shattered that fragile peace and revealed how unresolved issues can quickly reignite.
As the 14 June JBC meeting approaches, the two neighbors face parallel but divergent paths: Cambodia pursues a legal ruling on select sites, while Thailand sticks to diplomacy. What remains uncertain is whether these strategies will converge, or collide.
Laos Launches Nationwide Blood Drive Amid Persistent Shortages
As World Blood Donor Day approaches on 14 June, Laos is taking urgent action to address its ongoing struggle with blood shortages through a nationwide campaign. Organized by the Lao Red Cross in partnership with local health departments and hospitals, the blood drive is being rolled out across all provinces with the goal of encouraging more people to donate.
Hong Kong Hosts World’s Largest ISSCR Stem Cell Gathering for the First Time
Some 2,400 stem cell and regenerative medicine pioneers convene to chart new frontiers, resulting from bidding efforts of Hong Kong Convention Ambassadors of the Hong Kong Tourism Board


The four-day meeting held on June 11-14 gathers more than 2,400 local and international experts in stem cell research and regenerative medicine from 58 countries and regions, from Asia to North America, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and Mainland China. Pioneers share the latest advances in the field, with topics spanning the field of regenerative medicine including topics such as advances in cell therapies, fundamental discoveries, understanding disease processes and more.


HKCAs have been instrumental in winning the ISSCR 2025 Annual Meeting for Hong Kong. Launched in 2020 by the HKTB as a strategic initiative, the HKCA programme recruits high-level representatives of Hong Kong’s eight universities, chambers of commerce, professional organisations, public bodies, industrial entities and professional societies to act as ambassadors for Hong Kong’s convention sector. With their professional influence and networks, HKCAs have led efforts to bring in events ranging from medical sciences to innovation and technology (I&T), financial services, aviation, transportation and more. The close collaboration between HKCAs and the HKTB has proven effective in promoting Hong Kong as a premier hub for world-class conventions.
Date
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Events (*first-ever in Hong Kong)
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Theme/Sector
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March 2025
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IEEE Electron Devices Technology and Manufacturing Conference *
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Innovation & Technology
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May 2025
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IEEE International Conference on Data Engineering
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Innovation & Technology
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Jun 2025
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International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) Annual Meeting*
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Medical sciences
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Sep 2025
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Routes World*
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Aviation
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Dec 2025
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The International Society of Sport Psychology 16th World Congress
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Sports & Medical sciences
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2026
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Asia-Pacific Association for International Education 2026 Conference and Exhibition
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Education
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2026
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17th Asian Congress of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
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Medical sciences
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2026
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Asian Venture Philanthropy Network Conference
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Philanthropy
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2026
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International Federation of Landscape Architects World Congress
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Architecture
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2026
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Lions International Convention
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Social Services
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2026
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The Association of National Olympic Committees General Assembly
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Sports
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2026
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The Council Meeting of the Asian Patent Attorneys Association
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Intellectual property
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2026
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World Cancer Congress*
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Medical sciences
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2027
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International Association for Energy Economics Annual International Conference
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Economics
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2027
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Lions Clubs International Orient and Southeast Asian Lions Forum
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Social Services
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2027
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World Organization of Family Doctors Asia Pacific Regional Conference
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Medical sciences
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Hashtag: #HKTB
https://www.mehongkong.com/eng/home.html
https://www.linkedin.com/company/meetings-exhibitions-hong-kong/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
“Galaxy Macau™ Presents: Jimmy O. Yang Live in Macau” Is Set to Delight Macau Audiences at Broadway Theatre from July 4-6
Ticket will go on public sale on June 13
MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 June 2025 – One of America’s hottest comedy stars, Jimmy O. Yang is set to make his Macau debut this summer in one of the season’s most highly anticipated shows, “Galaxy Macau™ Presents: Jimmy O. Yang Live in Macau”. The Hollywood actor and comedian, best known for his roles in cult HBO series Silicon Valley and the global smash hit film Crazy Rich Asians, will perform his acclaimed stand-up show at Broadway Theatre – Broadway Macau™ from 4-6 July, 2025. Tickets will go on sale on 13 June, 2025 at 11:00AM via Galaxy Ticketing and Damai. Priority booking will be on 12 June, 2025 at 13:00PM via Trip.com and Ctrip.

Born in Hong Kong and raised in the U.S., Jimmy eagerly awaits his Macau debut as part of his first-ever Asian stand-up tour, coming hot on the heels of five sold-out shows in his native city. Jimmy, who moved to the U.S. at the age of 13, drew early inspiration from iconic Hong Kong comedian Dayo Wong and began his comedy career performing in intimate venues across America. Since then, he has carved out a unique comedic voice, weaving sharp cultural observations, Asian-American identity, and immigrant experiences into his hilarious act. As well as his various roles in TV shows and films, Jimmy has built a loyal following through his viral stand-up clips on YouTube, the highest of which has amassed more than 20 million views. His razor-sharp wit, charismatic stage presence, and masterful storytelling have seen Jimmy rise to global fame, and have also helped cement his status as a cross-cultural comedy sensation.

The 2,500 seat Broadway Theatre is the show venue of “Galaxy Macau™ Presents: Jimmy O. Yang Live in Macau”. This intimate venue guarantees guests with the opportunity to experience up-close interaction and unforgettable memories of laughter with Jimmy. Tickets are limited and are expected to sell fast.
“Galaxy Macau™ Presents: Jimmy O. Yang Live in Macau”
Show Date & Time: | July 4-5, 2025, 20:30 July 6, 2025, 15:00 |
Venue: | Broadway Theatre, Broadway Macau™ |
Ticket Price: | MOP/HKD 880/680/480 *Currency set based on the ticketing platform |
Priority Booking: | June 12, 2025 (Thurs), 13:00pm onwards |
Priority Booking Platforms: | Trip.com and Ctrip |
General on Sale: | June 13, 2025 (Fri), 11:00am onwards |
Ticketing Platforms: | Tickets will be available at Galaxy Ticketing, Damai |

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
ABOUT GALAXY MACAU INTEGRATED RESORT
Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.
As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies.
Embark on a delightful and rewarding journey at Galaxy Promenade, the one-stop shopping destination boasting some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Be the first to get the latest limited-edition items; explore fascinating pop-ups by coveted labels and revel in fabulous shopping rewards and privileges. Our VIPs are entitled to a highly-curated experience with dedicated personal shoppers at guests’ service, and be invited to exclusive luxury brand events. A different caliber of privileges and rewards also await. Discover the joys of fashion and stand at the forefront of style and sophistication—Galaxy Promenade has everything guests need to stay ahead of the style game.
Galaxy Cinemas takes immersive movie experiences to the next level with the latest audio-visual technology, ultra-luxurious facilities and bespoke services; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind cabaret lounge that evokes the glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with stylish entertainment and customizable surrounds; and Foot Hub, which presents the traditional art of reflexology for authentic relaxation and revitalization. For Authentic Macau Flavours and Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events.
Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also catered to with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and an expert service team. Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meters of total flexible MICE, and the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.
For more details, please visit www.galaxymacau.com,
www.broadwaymacau.com.mo and
www.galaxyicc.com
InvestHK to deepen economic ties with Canadian investors and businesses

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 June 2025 – Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) Mr Charles Ng will commence his duty visit to Canada from June 8 to 14 to deepen economic ties with Canadian investors and businesses.
“Hong Kong and Canada have long shared a strong and mutually beneficial investment relationship. In 2023, Canada ranked eighth among the major sources of inward direct investment into Hong Kong, contributing over US$34 billion. At the same time, Hong Kong made outward direct investment of around US$10 billion to Canada, reflecting the deep economic ties and two-way confidence between our markets,” Mr Ng said. “Hong Kong will continue to play its unique role as both a ‘super connector’ and a value creator, bridging traditional and emerging markets and unlocking new opportunities for Canadian businesses.”
During his visit to Waterloo, Toronto and Montreal, Mr Ng will meet with investors, family offices, multinationals, Canadian start-ups, academia and business leaders to explore new opportunities for collaboration and showcase Hong Kong’s unique advantages as a launchpad for Asian expansion. Key discussions will focus on leveraging the city’s strategic gateway position to Mainland China and its business-friendly environment for scaling operations.
Mr Ng will host exclusive roundtables for entrepreneurs and Canada-Hong Kong ecosystem partners to highlight Hong Kong’s strengths in wealth management and cross-border investment solutions. He will also participate in networking events to promote Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025, inviting Canadian investors and entrepreneurs to visit Hong Kong November 3 to 7, engage with Asia’s dynamic markets, and experience the opportunities Hong Kong offers firsthand.
Hong Kong and Canada have established longstanding and strong ties across trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchanges. This relationship was further strengthened by the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, which came into effect in September 2016, providing Canadian and Hong Kong investors with a transparent and secure environment to foster cross-border investment. In 2023, Canada ranked as Hong Kong’s ninth largest services trading partner, with bilateral trade growing at an average annual rate of 2.2 per cent from 2019 to 2023.
Hashtag: #InvestHK
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
China’s Aircraft Maker Seeks Majority Stake in Lao Airlines Amid Reforms
The Lao government is weighing a proposal from China’s Commercial Aircraft Corporation (COMAC) to acquire a controlling stake in Lao Airlines, part of a sweeping reform agenda aimed at revitalizing key state-owned enterprises that have faced persistent financial challenges.
The proposal, which has stirred debate within the latest National Assembly meeting, could result in one of the most significant foreign partnerships in the country’s aviation sector to date.
In May, COMAC formally requested a minimum 51 percent stake in Lao Airlines through a joint venture agreement, according to Lao state media. This request, submitted in October 2024, comes alongside calls to exclude the airline’s existing debt from the deal, an issue that remains a sticking point for lawmakers.
Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone confirmed during the 9th Ordinary Session of the 9th Legislature in June that Lao Airlines is one of four state enterprises undergoing urgent reform, along with Electricité du Laos, the Lao State Fuel Company, and the Nayoby Bank.
He acknowledged the seriousness of COMAC’s interest, framing it within the broader goal of improving operational efficiency across public sectors.
The proposal has elicited a divided response in parliament. National Assembly member Valy Vetsaphong expressed concern over relinquishing a majority stake in an asset deemed strategically vital.
She argued that Laos would be better served by appointing qualified executives to improve management rather than selling control to a foreign entity, as reported by the Vientiane Times, she also stressed that no foreign partner should be allowed to interfere in the airline’s core operations or receive subsidies.
State media also reported that another member of the Assembly voiced support for a phased ownership model, suggesting that the Lao government could initially sell a larger share to COMAC, but retain the right to repurchase shares in the future.
This would allow for technical and managerial expertise to be transferred to Lao Airlines while preserving long-term national control.
A key part of the proposed partnership is fleet integration. COMAC has requested that Lao Airlines begin using its aircraft for regular operations, a condition already partially fulfilled.
COMAC Jet Launches as Audit, Partnership Talks Continue
Lao Airlines began operating the COMAC C909 jet in April. The aircraft, configured with 90 economy seats, now services key domestic routes including Vientiane–Pakse and Vientiane–Savannakhet. Expansion to Chinese destinations is planned, aligning with COMAC’s broader strategy to deepen regional engagement.
To support this integration, COMAC has deployed a specialized team to assist Lao Airlines in preparatory tasks such as operations manual development, aviation material supply, maintenance capacity building, and crew training.
As the government continues deliberations, an independent audit of Lao Airlines is underway to determine the carrier’s asset value, a crucial step in finalizing any equity arrangement.
The outcome of this potential deal could have wide-ranging implications for foreign investment in Laos’ state-owned sectors and for the future of its national airline.
The decision is expected in the coming months as lawmakers and government officials weigh the long-term economic benefits against concerns over national sovereignty and control of strategic infrastructure.
Bokeo Launches Task Force and Watchtower Amid Surge in Methamphetamine Seizures
Bokeo Province has intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking and related crimes with the launch of a special task force and the completion of a new surveillance watchtower.