AI & Geopolitics: A new “AI Cold War” explainer maps a U.S.-led Pax Silica camp versus China’s W.A.I.C.O. bloc, showing Kazakhstan as the rare bridge between both networks. Regional Tech & Trade: The SCO is in the spotlight as leaders gather in Bishkek, with the wider agenda now covering digital tech and AI alongside transport and energy. Logistics Innovation: An SCO-linked road corridor in China’s Qingdao has moved 15,000+ tons via TIR trucking, cutting transit time for time-sensitive goods. Agritech Radar: China is expanding insect-tracking radar to help farmers spot migratory pests like the rice plant hopper, using radar + drone tests for milligram-level identification. Laos Climate Policy: Laos and South Korea’s KOTRA-backed Net-Zero Partnership highlights carbon-credit rules now in force, aiming to reduce emissions and scale clean energy projects. Mekong Fisheries Tech: ACIAR’s FishTech Plus starts this month to restore river connectivity and fish passage across the Mekong, building on earlier river reconnection work. Education in Lao: Laos’ MoES, with Australia’s BEQUAL, released 50 animated audio stories to boost Spoken Lao skills in Grade 1. Green Infrastructure: China-assisted zero-carbon library tech (solar + storage + EV charging) launched at Luang Prabang Peace Secondary School. Cybersecurity & Scams: Regional coverage flags rising online fraud and the need for stronger public awareness and reporting channels. Laos–Vietnam Connectivity: Vietnam and Laos reviewed the 2007 Hanoi Agreement at border gates, aiming to ease movement of people, vehicles, and goods.