Funding to restore degraded forests in Xe Bang Nouan National Protected Area was approved by ADB; The project will reforest damaged land, improve watershed management and support local communities with sustainable forestry, climate-resilient activities

Laos has been included in the list of countries facing full entry restrictions following new US travel ban; Washington cites security concerns, while critics argue the move is politically driven and risks harming diplomatic and economic ties

Planned its exit from Least Developed Country status, Laos set a timeline, starting work on a readiness assessment; The government aims to strengthen economic resilience and meet UN criteria, focusing on stability, human capital and sustainable growth

A major local government overhaul will create 640 new sub-districts; The reform aims to streamline governance, bring authorities closer to communities, and strengthen local development as part of a broader modernization push

Mineral sector has exceeded its five-year production and revenue targets; The government credits stricter oversight, improved licensing, and stronger environmental standards