AI & Scams: OpenAI says it disrupted a coordinated ChatGPT-based fraud network tied to Southeast Asia scam compounds, using the tool to generate fake identities, translate messages, and run “investment/romance/gambling” cons. Cross-border Crime Policy: U.S. Senate Foreign Relations chair Jim Risch warned that scam centers in Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar fuel human trafficking, money laundering, and other threats, pushing for stronger U.S. response. Laos Tech & Energy: Satellite imagery reported construction progress on Laos’ Pak Beng Mekong dam, a 912MW project aimed at boosting Laos’ “Battery of Southeast Asia” power exports. Regional Science Cooperation: Laos’ party chief met a Vietnamese delegation from the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics to turn research and training discussions into concrete cooperation programmes. Youth & Digital Skills: Lao Youth Business Association reviewed first-half 2026 results, expanding to 112 companies and pushing youth entrepreneurship via technology and digital innovation. Gold & Innovation: Lao Gold Festival 2026 (Sept 4–6, Vientiane) returns for its second year, expanding beyond sales into knowledge exchange, technology, and design for higher gold standards. ASEAN Tech Diplomacy: On 59th ASEAN Day, India’s Jaishankar highlighted deeper ties including digital linkages and resilient supply chains, while ASEAN cohesion is framed as practical project-by-project cooperation.