Laos–China Partnership: Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith met Xi Jinping in Beijing and the two sides signed 32 cooperation deals, pushing an “all-weather” Laos–China community and deeper work on trade, energy, connectivity and cybercrime. Science & Education: Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone launched Laos’s National Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy (2026–2040) and a new National Teacher Policy, aiming to strengthen long-term R&D capacity. Cave Rescue Tech: Lao-Thai rescue teams in Xaisomboun found a natural water outflow point to improve drainage in the flooded cave search for two missing people, using mapping and scanning while pumping operations continue. Health & Climate: Asia nears malaria elimination, but experts warn climate change could raise mosquito-borne disease risks, complicating the final push for Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Digital Safety for Youth: A Vientiane campaign trained young content creators to counter online scams and human trafficking, backed by EU, Germany and SDC with Lao ministries. Cross-border Trade Connectivity: Vietnam–Cambodia–Laos border trade talks highlighted faster corridors and logistics links to move goods and services more efficiently. Electric Mobility in the Region: Vingroup-backed Green SM launched its all-electric Green SM Limo ride-hailing in India, expanding from Laos and positioning AI-backed safety as a differentiator. Archaeology in Laos: New research on the Plain of Jars supports the idea that stone urns were used as crypts, not for rice wine.