Wednesday, May 16, 2012 09:20 PM -0400 ------ Update at least once a day...





May 14-20, 2012



Xayaburi Dam Redesign Mulled (RFA)
The Xayaburi dam on the Mekong River may have to be redesigned to avoid any adverse impact on the environment, a senior Lao official says, citing a French study amid opposition to the project by green groups and neighboring nations. Vice Minister of Energy and Mines Viraponh Viravong said that Laos received the findings from a French company hired to
8 kids killed in Laos after gunfire brings down electricity cable (ANN/VT)
Ten people died in Xamneua district, Huaphan province of Laos last week, after attending a ceremony to relocate the spirits of their former village to their new dwelling place. The incident occurred on the evening of May 12. Natang villagers had gone together to conduct the spirit relocation ceremony when tragedy struck, according to a report received from the provincial
Vientiane Land Prices Soar (RFA)
Real estate prices are soaring in Laos’s capital, Vientiane, residents say, as the city develops at a rapid pace. Land prices in Vientiane, the country’s economic center, have risen to over U.S. $2,500 per square meter in some areas, up to two hundred times the price in areas in the outskirts of the city. Residents said prices in prime business areas of the capital
Australian aid to Laos to reach AU$54.9m (VT)
Australian aid to Laos is estimated to reach AU$54.9 million, if regional & global programs from which Laos will benefit are included. Of the total aid programme, Australia's country direct aid to Laos will increase from AU$31.6 million in 2011-12 to AU$40.2 million for 2012-13. According to a press release from the Australian Embassy to Laos on Friday,
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Helping girls with SAMA in Laos (B&B)
... University of Laos faculty to hold job fair (VT)
... Laos mulls final strategies for exit from LDC status (VT)
... KF&E eyes machinery leasing market in Laos (Nation)
... Vietnam, Laos strengthen ties in agriculture and law (BaoMoi)
... Lao NA: Govt's poverty reduction drive needs change of focus (VT)
... UPS details ‘major logistics feat’ shipping vaccines to Laos (ACW)
... Judge delays bail hearing for Buddhist monk accused in Grand Bay slaying
... Laos: Let the spirit guide you (Stuff)
... Larb Salad: From Laos, With Love (Phoenix NT)
... Boten economic zone changes development focus (VT)
... Lao National Assembly calls for more specific investment plan (VT)
... Youth rock concert in Mill Valley to benefit orphanage in Laos (MIJ)
... Laos, Hmong Veterans Honored At National Ceremonies (Scoop)
... Laos, Philippines explore trade, investment opportunities (VT)
... Laos as a Regional Link (Manila Times)
... Korea builds social infrastructure in Laos (KH)
... Thai Govt approves loan for Lao airport (TTR Weekly)
... Laos: Limited Resources Hamper Victims’ Rescue (RFA)
... Crackdown on Churches “Spreading” in Southern Laos (BNL)
... Norwegian UXO survey gets underway in southern Laos (VT)
... Thai-Lao officials to step up border drug trade clampdown (PM)
... Laos: Ministry uses reserve fund to develop third rice variety (VT)
... Thaicom’s combined Cambodia, Laos revenues down by 7.5% (TG)



May 7-13, 2012



Murdered monk helped suspect [from Laos] get to US (Fox10 TV or DM)
The monk killed at the Buddhist temple in Irvington on Friday was instrumental in bringing the man suspected in his death to the United States from Laos five years ago. A special ceremony is scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday at the temple in the victim’s honor. It is not a funeral service, Khamphouy explained. The date & location of the funeral will be determined
Laos extradites suspect to China in Mekong massacre case (Reuters or VT)
Laos on Thursday handed over the suspected leader of a drug gang accused of killing 13 members of Chinese boat crews on a lawless stretch of the Mekong River, an incident that caused Beijing to send gunboat patrols to the region downstream from its borders. Naw Kham, a Burmese man in his 40s notorious for his role in suspected drug smuggling in
In Laos, 'bamboo curtain' yields to pro golf (AFP/Yahoo)
It's 7:00 am in Luang Prabang and beneath a jagged line of mountain peaks, high-ranking communist party officials are among a small but powerful crowd gathered silently at the first tee. One swish of the driver and a white ball fizzes down the fairway, prompting warm applause as professional golf finally arrives in secluded, poverty-stricken Laos, long isolated
Laos offers a wealth of drinking options! (AAP/TT)
Scorpions and venomous snakes are perfectly preserved in bottles of flammable sticky rice wine. This potion, known as lao bong ya, is believed to ward off evil spirits and cure the sick, on the proviso the afflicted don't eat the pickled wildlife, as some drinkers would consume a Mexican agave worm immersed in tequila. A small village, on the banks of the Mekong River
Hot weather sees energy usage soar in Vientiane (VT)
Electricity consumption in Vientiane reached a record high in March after several days of high temperatures in the city. A peak load of 216.7MW was recorded on March 19 when the maximum temperature that day was 34.2C.  “The reason for the high load was the greater use of electrical equipment, especially fans and air conditioners,” said Deputy Director General
Thaworn blazes his way to fantastic victory in Laos (Nation or BP)
Thaworn Wiratchant lived up to the expectations by winning the inaugural US$80,000 Luang Prabang Laos Open with an eight-stroke victory over the Philippines' Jay Bayron yesterday. Despite some hiccups on the final day, which was competed under slight drizzle in the morning, Thaworn fired a solid 67 for a total of 21-under-par 267 at the Luang Prabang Golf
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Rock climbing in Laos (TTR Weekly)
... HEMET: Lao poet to sign books (PE)
... Loving Luang Prabang in Laos (Herald Sun)
... Lao President receives North Korean army chief (VT)
... Vietnam scientists ask their PM to stop Lao dam project (TNN)
... Workplace inspections loom for underpaying employers in Laos (VT)
... Laos PM arrives in Manila (Inquirer)
... Phl, Laos sign 4 agreements (Phil Star)
... Laos: A nip to ward off evil spirits (Article)
... Hopes that tourism will rocket at Plain of Jars (VT)
... Laos says building of controversial dam on hold (AFP)
... Thai Cabinet approves THB184mil loans to Laos (PM)
... Laos villagers see farms become fairways (AFP/Yahoo)
... Laos-Vietnam special solidarity cemented in book series (VT)
... Laos Aspires to Biodiverse Site Reconnaissance (Prensa Latina)
... Lounging in Laos (West/Yahoo)
... Laos PM here for 2-day state visit (Inquirer)
... Laos repatriates Cambodian loggers (PPP)
... SNV enhances water and sanitation in Laos (VT)
... Trade with Laos grows in first quarter (Vietnam News)
... Laos on track in reducing poverty, sustaining growth (BM)
... Laos to propose stone forest as World Heritage Site (VT)
... Australian aid to Laos to increase despite budget changes (VT)
... Laotian in US -- Obituaries Kham Thuangren — Rochester (PB)
... New Lao airline takes off (TTR Weekly)
... Mekong River the target of fish building (ABC)
... Laos maps out plans to preserve culture (ANN)
... Kuwaiti envoy discusses bilateral ties with Laos (KUNA)
... Lao PM sets targets for information, culture, tourism (VT)
... Chinese loan to bolster rice irrigation in Savannakhet (VT)
... Xayaburi dam may have the Mekong boiling over (Nation)
... Mekong Panel Calls for Laos' Dam Construction Freeze (RFA)
... Laos: Wild mushrooms not always what they appear to be (VT)
... Getting Away: Vang Vieng (GK)
... Plain of Jars listed as endangered (VT)
... Repairs to northern Laos' highway underway (VT)
... Smarter systems to woo investors back (Gulf News)
... Laos: From tour guide to genuine friend (Sydney MH)
... Laos: Ministry maps out plans for information, culture and tourism (VT)
... Authorities arrest illegal migrant labourers; 35 Laos, 39 Cambodians detained
... New York-based designer Elizabeth Suda crafts jewelry out of scrap bomb metal
... Bypass to ease congestion in Luang Prabang (VT)
... $15M suit seeks control of Laos slot machines (ST)
... Laos: Decree details roadmap for teacher development (VT)
... B718m loan approved for Uttaradit-Laos link (Bangkok Post)
... Theater artists speak on their work on the U.S. Silent War on Laos (UCLA)




April 30-May 6, 2012



Laos behind the headlines - no, it’s not a Full Moon party on steroids (Crikey)
Laos hit the headlines recently after three Australians died in the space of a month in the tourist towns of Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. But there is plenty more to say about this little landlocked country than these tragic reports suggested. My first trip to Laos was in 2007. The twin propeller airplane wobbled and stuttered its way over the Mekong River when
Laos: no work on Xayaburi dam until green concerns solved (Nation)
Laos said yesterday it would not make a final decision on construction of the Xayaburi dam in the main stream body of the Mekong River before approval by the international community and countries in the Lower Mekong basin over environment concerns. Work on the site by the Thai construction company Ch Karnchang was just preparation, mostly in the primary and
Laos targets 8% GDP growth for next fiscal year (SINA)
In spite of ongoing economic challenges, such as the effect of the European debt crisis and the risk of natural disasters, Laos will aim to increase its GDP by 8 percent to 80,500 billion kip (about 10.6 billion U.S. dollars) for the 2012/2013 fiscal year. According to a draft plan completed recently by the Lao Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI), the Lao Govt
Cambodia Lodges Dam Protest with Laos (RFA)
Cambodia has called for an immediate halt to the construction of the Xayaburi dam in an official protest note to Laos, officials said in a statement released Tuesday, as opposition to the hydropower project gained momentum in Thailand. Lim Kean Hor, Cambodia’s water resources minister and its representative to the Mekong River Commission (MRC)
U.S. donates 10 mln USD worth of school meals to Laos (XN/MCOT)
More school children in rural Laos are to benefit from mid-morning school meals due to the latest 10 million U.S. dollars donation to the World Food Program (WFP) by the U.S. government, according to a WFP Press Release. "On behalf of the American people, I am very pleased that this support is helping thousands of Lao children receive the nutrition they
Champassak authorities asked to rescue fallen holy tree (VT)
Champassak provincial authorities have been bombarded with requests from concerned locals to rescue a sacred manikhoth tree - a holy tree in Buddhist tradition - from being swept away by the Mekong River after it toppled over last month. The tree stood on a rock in the middle of Khonephapeng waterfall, the thunderous 10km wide falls in southernmost
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos: Xayaburi Dam Halted, Really? (Diplomat)
... Vietnam, Laos step up trade cooperation (MCOT)
... New Lao airline powered by Thais (Chicago Tribune)
... Double export turnover with Laos targeted (Vietnam News)
... Laos 'undermines credibility' of Mekong region consultations (ANN)
... Laos seeks approval of Mekong countries for Xayaburi dam (ANN)
... Thousands treated and partnership formed during Operation Pacific Angel-Laos
... Golf: Laos Open: Bayron sizzles with 66, leads 3 Thais by 2 shots (GMA News)
... Thaworn registers course record for Luang Prabang lead (BP)
... Thaworn breaks course record to lead in Laos (Nation)
... Laos, Vietnam's Women Unions Boost Ties (Bernama)
... Golf: Bayron leads Thai pair by two shots in Laos (Nation or BP)
... Northern Laos: Ban Houayxia delivers first pour for PanAust (MW)
... Laos: A dam on the Mekong - Opening the floodgates (Economist)
... Chinese investors rank as biggest foreign group in Lao stock market (XN)
... Xayaburi Dam protesters in Phuket maintain threat of closing Thai-Laos Bridge
... EDL-Gen surge powers on (LV/VT)
... Vietnam, Laos’ women unions boost ties (TN)
... Hailstorm strikes villages in Luang Prabang (VT)
... Lao CPI figures rise by 5.33 percent in March (LV)
... Disease, heat kill livestock in Luang Prabang (VT)
... EU expects to increase aid to Laos despite debt crisis (LV)
... Tourism expo ATF Travex returns to Laos for 2nd time (EW)
... Thousands join International Workers' Day walk in Vientiane (VT)
... Minmetals Resources Gold Output Surges on High-Grade Laos Ore (Bloomberg)
... Laos is a trip back in time (Reader)
... Laos closes in on WTO (Asia Times)
... Xayaburi opposition escalates in Thailand (PPP)
... Residents demand answers on Xayaburi (Nation)
... Asean, EU urged to sustain economic growth (VT)
... Vientiane's Morning Market bus station to be rebuilt (VT)
... Chinese Company Bets Big on Laos Casino Project (VOA)
... Laos: Businesses urged to observe minimum wage rule (VT)
... Xayaburi Dam: Anti-dam activists picket Phuket meeting (PN)
... US backs nutrition, school meals programme in Laos (ANN/Yahoo)
... Thaworn eyes historic Laos win (BP)
... Slow Boat Home to Luang Prabang (OWW)
... Laos’ Herculean Effort to Join the WTO (IPS)
... Lao New Year brings in good luck (Dail Globe)
... BIDV enhances banking activities in Laos (Vietnam IR)
... Lao Govt plans salary increase for state employees (VT)
... Party Secretary General urges struggle against ideology erosion (VT)
... Khaen and Lao Folk Music: An interview with Jonny Olsen (Examiner)
... Fashion girls: Chloe & Sydney Dao journey from Laos to Project Runway fame




April 23-29, 2012



Poor Laos gears up for first golf event (Bangkok Post)
Communist Laos will pass a sporting milestone next week when it hosts its first professional golf event, the $80,000 Luang Prabang Laos Open.  The small, poverty-stricken southeast Asian state will hold the Asean PGA Tour event in the world heritage city of Luang Prabang, known for its idyllic temples. Centre-stage for the hosts will be the multi-talented Daliya
Laos: Migration putting young people at risk (VT)
The number of young people migrating within Laos is on the rise due to poor social and economic circumstances, and the trend is placing an increased number of children in vulnerable situations. The findings are part of a series of new studies released at a forum held in Vientiane yesterday.  “In Laos, internal migration is emerging as a critical issue affecting
U.S.: Mexican man uses identity of Laotian girl, 5, police say (NC Times)
The girl's father is a graduate student whose parents came to the United States in the mid-1970s as refugees from Laos. He said he and his family were reluctant at first to pursue the police report, fearing that it was perhaps just a simple mix-up. But, he said, he came to realize that his daughter's credit had been compromised and decided to pursue the case.
PanAust opens second Lao operation at Ban Houayxai (VT)
Phu Bia Mining officially opened an open-cut gold and silver mine on Friday, at the mine site in Ban Houayxai, 25 kilometres west of their existing gold and copper operation at Phu Kham. The opening ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad and other high ranking officials, Australian Ambassador to Laos Ms Lynda Worthaisong, and
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Five reasons to visit Pakse (Time)
... Laos wilts as temperatures soar (VT)
... Laos, Vietnam promote special solidarity (VT)
... Vietnamese firms channel $3.45bln into Laos (VIR)
... Govt prepares bills for debate at NA's June session (VT)
... Shan drug lord suspect nabbed in Laos, sent to China (BP)
... Attacker of Chinese ships held in Laos (Shanghai Daily or XN)
... High schoolers raise money for We Help War Victims in Laos (DN)
... BioJet, Lao Asia Pacific Agriculture sign aviation biofuels pact for Laos
... Many Along Mekong River Concerned About Hydropower Expansion (VOA)
... Damed Nations: A Hydroelectric Project in Laos May Fuel Strife in SEA (UND)
... Laos: why bother? (Sydney MH)
... Get Lost in Laos: Luang Prabang (ST)
... Vietnam to invest 1.4 billion dollars in Laos (Nation)
... National contest seeks top primary school pupils (VT)
... EU grant supports food security in rural Laos, Cambodia (VT)
... Lao leader attends Asean-EU ministerial meeting in Brunei (VT)
... Protestors Condemn Ch. Karnchang over Xayaburi Dam Construction
... Xayaburi Dam construction to continue? (UPI)
... Bokeo bans felling of palm nut trees (VT)
... San Francisco Celebrates Lao New Year (Asian Week)
... EU offers €4.3m for grassroots development in Laos (VT)
... Ch Karnchang eyes 10% return from Laos project (Nation)
... CK targets 15% growth as Xayaburi progresses (Bangkok Post)
... Downstream Mekong residents rally against Xayaburi Dam (Nation)
... Assembly head calls for tighter bonds with Laos (Vietnam News)
... Vietnam-Laos historical site in Son La underway (TN)
... Laos-Vietnam road link fails to meet schedule (ANN)
... Laos casino project shelved (IGO)
... Xayaburi study locks in funding (PPP)
... Laos appreciates Mekong-Japan cooperation (VT)
... Japan pledges $7.4B in aid for Mekong region (VOA)
... Laos: NGOs flay Nestlé’s infant formula strategy (IRIN)
... Laos sees greater trade ($1 billion) with Vietnam (LTN)
... City pillar shrine in Vientiane receives crowning glory (VT)
... Photo exhibition honours Vietnam-Laos ties (Nhan Dan)
... Laotian Killing: Senser trial to begin after months of silence (Scout)
... Construction resumes on controversial Mekong dam project in Laos (RAN)
... U.S.: Past catches up to Laotian immigrant, family (DR)
... Laos Site, Plain of Jars, Eyes World Heritage List (RFA)
... Drainage planned for That Luang Marsh to prevent flooding (VT)
... Lao, Thai institutes ink deal on postgraduate engineering programs (VT)
... 700 Dogs Seized in Mukdahan Thai-Lao Smugglers suspected (Pattaya DN)




April 16-22, 2012



Laos Rejects China Rare Earth Plant (RFA)
After mulling for a year, Laos has rejected a bid by a company from China to build a rare earth minerals plant in the Southeast Asian state, citing the company’s refusal to disclose the source of its minerals and potential adverse environmental impact, according to a government official. The mining official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that rare earth minerals
‘Laos Please Don't Rush’ (IOL Travel)
On the first day of Pi Mai Lao, or Lao New Year, the capital Vientiane wakes up to the sound of Buddhist monks chanting in the ancient Pali language as women in traditional silk skirts gather at dawn to offer alms to monks in orange coloured robes. Phonesavanh Xaypanya, 63, is one of them. Together with her five-year-old grand-daughter Malaythong she kneels
Walgreens Donates More Than $9 Million Worth of Flu Vaccine to Laos (BW)
As flu season approaches in Southeast Asia, Walgreens today announced a donation of 375,000 doses of seasonal flu vaccine to Laos. The Lao PDR Ministry of Health (Lao MOH) was selected to receive the vaccine based on longstanding collaborations between the Lao MOH, World Health Organization (WHO) and the Department of Health & Human Services'
Xayaburi Dam Building Pact Signed (RFA)
In a controversial move, a Thai company has signed a nearly $2 billion-dollar contract for the construction of a dam on the Mekong River in Laos even though governments in the region have not cleared the project. Ch. Karnchang informed the Thai stock exchange Tuesday it had signed a 52 billion baht (U.S. $1.7 billion) contract with Xayaburi Power Co. Ltd., a Lao-Thai
Luang Prabang recognises Wanderlust readers with special award (W)
The city of Luang Prabang has just celebrated its sixth win of the Top City in the Wanderlust Travel Awards, as part of the Lao New Year celebrations. The Lao New Year festival lasts for three days from April 13 to April 15, although there are many other events in the run-up and afterwards. Luang Prabang is a renowned centre for celebrations, with the Miss Lao New
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos launches flu vaccination (CIDRAP)
... Xayaburi Dam Controversy Flares (Diplomat)
... Thai firm says Xayaburi project has begun (EB)
... Cambodia Warns Laos Over Mekong Dam (RFA)
... Illegal crossings foiled at Thai, Lao borders (PPP)
... Laotian in U.S.: Eat This: Fried Noodles (Kansan)
... Laos: Dry season crop losses less than last year (VT)
... Vietnam-Laos friendship conference in Son La (Nhan Dan)
... Thai Lao Restaurant holds grand opening (Rochester BJ)
... Australia Shares Fishing Knowledge with Laos (Fish Site)
... Local NA committees monitoring Lao Govt performance (VT)
... Southern Laos: Champassak University expansion set to begin (VT)
... Laos Highlights Cuba's Contribution to School Program (Prensa Latina)
... Laos scarred by secret war (Stuff)
... Vientiane city pillar shrine almost complete (VT)
... Salary issues at Sepon mine to be resolved (VT)
... Laos drug tycoon Xieng Phenh nabbed, again (TN)
... Protests Planned Against Laos' Dam Builder (RFA)
... Cuban sugar to sweeten meals of Lao students (HO)
... Memorial to President Ho Chi Minh built in Laos (TN)
... Vietnam to remain Laos' biggest investor with $1.4 b (XN)
... Laos: Church closures spark fears of wider crackdown (IM)
... Laos: Govt video conferencing system installed nationwide (VT)
... Pi Mai: Time of wettings and blessings (VT)
... Crime in Vientiane under the microscope (VT)
... Ch Karnchang up on Lao power project (Reuters)
... Vietnam funds boarding school in Xieng Khuang (VT)
... Laos: Catalyst Resource Group Provides Corporate Update (MW)
... Luang Prabang: The Most Charming City in Southeast Asia? (About)
... Film: Young Lao film-makers are trying to turn the light back on ... (BP)
... To the Laos - To the People of God, Easter 2012 (Anglican Communion)
... Laos: Poverty Reduction Fund Project (WB)
... Second day of celebrations for the Lao New Year (ABC)
... Lao New Year's traditional focus draws tourists (Reuters)
... Happy Lao new year; hundreds attend celebration in Visalia (VTD)
... Laos: Communal land titles could save more than forests (IRIN)
... 2030 Club hosts charitable caravan tour to Laos (Saigon Times)



April 9-15, 2012



US: Laotian innocent of manslaughter in ‘warning shots’ death of teen (CST)
When the verdict finally was announced, it turned out to be something of a compromise. The jury found 58-year-old Donald Rattanavong of Elgin — a Laotian immigrant and former Buddhist monk — innocent of involuntary manslaughter but guilty of the lesser crime of reckless discharge of a firearm. Judge Kay Hanlon then revoked Rattanavong’s bond,
Laos: ADB forcasts 8% growth (VT)
The economy of Laos is forecasted to expand by 7.8 percent to 8 percent in 2012, as resource-based industries, manufacturing and services continue to generate robust growth, according to a key Asian Development Bank (ADB) report. ADB officials officially unveiled the Asian Development Outlook for 2012 at the ADB office in Vientiane yesterday.
Thaksin's supporters disappointed in Laos (BP)
Red-shirt supporters who turned up at Vientiane's Wat Tai airport this morning to greet their mentor Thaksin Shinawatra were disappointed when his private plane instead landed at a military airport. Many of the red-shirts, who were advised not to wear red on entering Laos, changed their shirts to red after arriving at Wat Tai airport, holding placards & cloth banners
Thaksin 'Songkran Tour' in Vientiane today (Bangkok Post)
Ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra's visit to Laos today to celebrate Songkran has done little to stir people in the capital Vientiane. "We did not prepare anything to welcome Thaksin. We'll still go about our daily lives. His visit to Laos means very little to us us," company director Soukhakhone Bouangboubphar said. Mr Bouangboubphar believes
Laos: Economists lower 2012 GDP growth forecast (VT)
Economists at the Ministry of Planning and Investment say that GDP growth for the 2011-12 fiscal year will be up 8 percent on last year, but less than the earlier projection of 8.3 percent. They attribute the drop to a decline in agricultural and industrial productivity. The government had targeted a GDP value of 70,200 billion kip this fiscal year, representing an 8.3 percent
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Lao New Year (US Dept of State)
... Thaksin arrives in Vientiane (BP)
... Lao New Year celebrated in Vietnam (TN)
... Thaksin's two-fold mission to Laos (ANN)
... Lao President offers best wishes for Pi Mai (VT)
... PanAust sticks to production targets in Laos (BS)
... Laos: Penn students learn world politics in NYC (JE)
... Thailand looks to Laos to solve animal feed need (AAF)
... Thai Government targets Laos maize imports (Bangkok Post)
... PanAust says quarterly output bodes well for meeting FY target (MW)
... Southeast Asia: Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and their cultural ties (LA Times)
... Champassak eyes tourism growth of 30 percent (VT)
... Vang Vieng: Party town on the rocks (WA Today or Stuff)
... Laos Festival or The Year of the Dragon Festival (Examiner)
... Lao Catholics mark Easter without priest or church (AsiaNews)
... Chinese-Vietnamese Tussle Delays Laos' Marsh Project (RFA)
... Lao GDP sees robust growth amid economic challenges: ADB report
... Mobile group in Laos offers discount of Galaxy Note for Lao New Year's
... Exiled Thaksin inches closer to return to Thailand (GMA News)
... Water Festival Without Water in Laos (RFA)
... Leaders confirm attendance at Laos ASEM (CP)
... Laos closes church, persecution increasing (ONN)
... Lao PM directs funding towards rice cultivation (VT)
... Reflecting and preparing for Lao New Year, 2555! (DP)
... Laos, Vietnam put history of special solidarity on display (VT)
... Saravan lays down welcome mat for Visit Laos Year guests (VT)
... After 25 Years, Passage to Indochina Is Best Selling Trip Ever (MW)
... Laos, China Vow To Improve Law Enforcement Along Mekong (Bernama)
... Champassak kicks off New Year celebrations (VT)
... Laos, Cambodia Glad to Welcome Thaksin (RFA)
... Vietnam prioritizes cooperation with Laos (VietnamNet)
... Regional contract-farming deal secures rubber market (VT)
... Laos: You can't complain when you're part of the problem (SMH)
... China, Laos vow to improve law enforcement along Mekong (PD)
... Souvenirs mark 50 years of Laos-China relations (VT)
... Foreign leaders confirm presence at ASEM Summit (VT)
... Laos: Walk promotes health for the elderly (VT)




April 2-8, 2012



Vang Vieng, Laos: the world's most unlikely party town (Guardian)
It is Adam Axford's last day in Vang Vieng. We know this because scrawled across his naked torso in jumbo marker pen are the words "Last Day!" The 26-year-old Essex boy is returning to Ilford ("the real world") in the morning, and the message is designed to elicit "snogs and sympathy" from the spray-painted, bikini-clad women partying at a riverside bar in this tiny
Lao-Hmong: Police find 'opium den,' arrest parents, remove 7 children (PP)
When the children of a St. Paul couple reportedly stopped coming to school, St. Paul police investigated. When two of those children said they were sleeping in what police called an "opium den" - complete with a haze of smoke and stench of charred drugs - authorities removed the seven children and arrested the parents. Mark Sa Yang, 50, and Chao Xiong
Laotians in US: Court clears couple of immigration allegations (CT)
A federal judge has cleared a Nebraska couple of accusations that they held Laotians, including a Columbia resident, as indentured servants.  Ae Xaypanya, an immigrant from Laos who works as a tailor at Men's Wearhouse off Stadium Boulevard, told authorities that Edward & Amphayvanh Alstatt tried to charge him for returning his immigration documents
Thais Cycling Laos is "Sanuk" in Motion (TAC)
Seven hours and 90 kilometers into Laos and cyclists are nearing the top of the day's third steep climb. The bicycles are crawling, but the riders are smiling as they finish the last tough grind of the day. It started below 400 metres elevation on the Mekong River marking the Thai-Lao border, then followed a two-lane bitumen strip to a school below a mountain.
Laos, China's Yunnan target US$300m in trade (VT)
Laos and China's Yunnan province have agreed to encourage trade and investment in the region, aiming for a two-way trade value of US$300 million this year. Governor of Yunnan province Li Jiheng spoke in support of this goal at a trade and investment conference held in Vientiane last week, which was also attended by Deputy PM Somsavat Lengsavad.
Lao Govt gives green light for US$100m cement project (VT)
Lao and Chinese entrepreneurs expect to spend more than US$100 million to develop the cement industry in Laos in response to the growing needs of the construction industry.  An agreement on the prospecting and exploration of raw materials for a cement plant in Ban Khoun Ngeun in Khounkham district, Khammuan province, was signed in Vientiane on
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos: Something to declare (Sydney MH)
... Luang Prabang, Laos: Pizza Sasa (Slice)
... Boten turns focus from casino to commerce (VT)
... More funding needed for road building in Laos (VT)
... Lao Health Ministry, WHO work to combat TB (ANN)
... Laos Closing Down Church Around Good Friday (BNL)
... North Minneapolis Lao-Hmong Students Invade Capitol (DP)
... Laos: Officials Confiscate Church Buildings (Eurasia Review)
... Laos is improving weak anti-human trafficking laws (Individual)
... Laotian in US: New restaurant to open in downtown Raleigh (TBJ)
... Vientiane provincial capital takes shape despite budget constraints (VT)
... Laotian Christians challenge official ban and celebrate Holy Week (AN)
... World Bank Grants US$8 Million To Improve Mekong Resources Management
... In Laos, media workshop encourages positive, holistic early childhood devpt.
... Lao Govt announces public holiday for Pi Mai Lao (VT)
... China likely to become Laos' largest foreign investor (ANN)
... Australia a strong supporter of UXO clearance in Laos (VT)
... Laos faces challenge to clear unexploded ordinance (XinhuaNet)
... World Bank commits US$8m to Mekong resources management (VT)
... Medical units set up to treat roving reds off to see Thaksin in Laos (BP)
... Vientiane City Pillar shrine nears completion (VT)
... Asean Summit celebrates 45th anniversary in Cambodia (VT)
... Lao-Americans: Pii May event begins on Friday in Coteau (ID)
... Lao Evangelical Church donates for the poor (Lao Voices/KPL)
... Lao Brewery Company pays over 1,000 bln kip tax to Govt (LV/KPL)
... Resource upgrade provides basis for Bankable Feasibility Study in Laos
... 'Little Laos,' Joerg Daiber's Latest Tilt-Shift Video, Chronicles Southeast Asian Nation
... Helping to clear a deadly legacy in Laos (Australian)
... Dams in Laos may kill fishing in Cambodia (Futurity)
... PanAust's 2nd gold mine begins production in Laos (BS)
... Lao Govt to retake control of ‘dot la' internet domain name (VT)
... Luang Prabang hotels almost fully booked for Lao New Year (VT)
... Lao Christians 'Reclaim' Confiscated Church Buildings (Worthy News)
... Experts to help communities in Laos adapt to development (Radio Australia)
... Laotian in US: Grandmother killed in crash was leaving for vacation tomorrow
... Vientiane's Nongchan to become new urban centre (VT)
... Vientiane province set to reveal hidden gem (VT)




March 26-April 1, 2012



Lao Expert Blames Chinese Dams (RFA)
In a rare criticism, a Lao government expert has blamed dams in China for the latest drop in the Mekong River levels, saying it is impacting navigation along the key Southeast Asian artery and destroying fishing resources. Aside from the current dry spell in mainland Southeast Asia, Chinese dams on the upper Mekong river are causing water levels to
Internet cafes warned to cut Thai links (VT or ANN/Yahoo)
The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications has urged internet cafes that purchase bandwidth from companies in Thailand to revoke their purchase agreements as the use of these services is illegal. The ministry's Information and Technology Department Deputy Director General, Mr Khamphanh Souvannakha, made the comment yesterday in response
Developing Laos poses risks for Aussies (Yahoo)
There were several ways I could have died while travelling through Laos - or at least, got into a decent amount of trouble. There was the night I was frisked at gunpoint by authorities on the street and almost arrested for being out and about past the communist government's midnight curfew. Or the day I took a hot air balloon ride with a pilot who didn't know how to land.
1000 red shirt Thais to meet Thaksin in Laos (Bangkok Post)
The spirit of Songkran gets an early start on Monday when red-shirt core member Kwanchai Praipana takes 1,000 supporters to Laos to meet fugitive ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra who will be celebrating the festival there. Mr Kwanchai, who heads the We Love Udon group and the We Love E-Sarn group, said 1,000 members from the two groups will travel in 20
Lao Govt to create 49 forest protection areas (VT)
The government has agreed to establish 49 forestry protection areas in all 16 provinces, at its monthly meeting held in Vientiane on March 22-23.  The move aims to preserve the country's forests as a key contributor to the prevention of soil erosion and landslides, as well as protect the environment and watershed areas for the benefit of Lao people. The project will include
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Lao airline starts flights to Da Nang (TN)
... Champasak tipped for Thaksin meet (BP)
... Lao Govt urges small businesses to merge (VT)
... A New Sanctuary for Rescued Bears in Laos (JG)
... AirAsia to Increase Flights to Vientiane, Laos (ATT)
... Unidentified artefact remains shrouded in mystery (VT)
... Lao-Thai: Developers turn attention to Udon Thani (BP)
... Lao Christians Reclaim Confiscated Church Buildings (BNL)
... Laos, China's Yunnan province sign cooperation agreements (VT)
... Lao-American - The grocer: Add more parking to help businesses thrive (DR)
... Lao Deputy PM checks on building projects for ASEM Summit (VT)
... Party Secretary General calls for tougher measures against corruption (VT)
... The Forest Retreat Laos cafe and bar makes a mean grilled cheese (Examiner)
... Laos seeks to optimise population structure (VT)
... Laos limits water throwing to 3 days of New Year (Nation)
... Singapore pledges to help Laos host ASEM Summit (VT)
... 60,000 red shirt Thais likely to meet Thaksin in Laos (BP)
... Procuracy to increase co-operation with Laos (Vietnam News)
... Lao Officials Arrest Five Christians in Southern Village (Christian Post)
... Media workshop encourages positive, holistic early childhood devpt. in Laos
... ACRES & Lao Zoo set up Vientiane centre to curb illegal wildlife trade (CNA)
... Thai-Lao border trade booms (Pattaya Mail)
... New primary school slated for rural Savannakhet (VT)
... Lao Tourism forms PPP working groups (TTR Weekly)
... French grant helps preserve heritage sites in Laos (VT)
... Vietnamese gold trader sets up business in Laos (BaoMoi)
... Authorities announce Lao New Year activities in Vientiane (VT)
... One Man’s Quest to Taste Food from Every Nation, Without Leaving NYC
... Laos: Library Week Promotes Knowledge Sharing & Information Access (WB)
... Laos: It’s Buddha-Licious (Yahoo)
... Organic agriculture takes root in Laos (BaoMoi)
... Laos logging incident sees man shot, injured (PPP)
... Rugby Gives Laos Players Bigger Opportunities (WSJ)
... VDO conference system to go online next month: minister (VT)
... Borikhamxay irrigation project cancelled due to lack of funding (VT)
... Fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge to boost Borikhamxay economy (VT)
... ‘Turning Point’ For Mekong Dams (EAR)
... Vietnamese bank builds gift school in Laos (TN)
... Laos Detains Christians Over Worship Service (BNL)
... Laos: Christian Worshipers Arrested In Weekend Sting (ER)
... Lao tourism expects to generate US$435m this year (LV/VT)
... Ha Tinh province wants to expand investment in Laos (BaoMoi)
... Remains of revolutionary leaders interred at National Cemetery (VT)
... Lao youth urged to learn, practice first generation's revolutionary ideals (VT)




March 19-25, 2012



36 Hours in Vientiane, Laos (New York Times)
NESTLED in a curve of the Mekong River, Vientiane, Laos, is a place where monks in orange robes outnumber tourists, & French colonial roofs and gilded temples form the skyline. Along the dusty streets of the capital of Laos, you’re more likely to spot a polished Volkswagen bug puttering along than a traffic jam. And in the town center, butterflies and birds flutter
Boat beats the bus to Luang Prabang (TTR Weekly)
IN 2009 the sleepy village of Nam Nguen in Nan province woke up one morning to international status. It gained a border checkpoint, an international one to neighouring Huay Kone in Laos. But it did not mean much for villagers who have been crossing the border to trade for generations. They view tourism as a novelty.  Sure the even more sleepy
Laos’ tourism rate drops (TTR Weekly)
Laos welcomed 2,700,000 visits in 2011 and estimated tourism revenue of US$406 million, according to a Tourism Development Department ... The growth rate declined from 25.13% to 8.34% when compared to 2010 and 2011. This year, the Tourism Devt. Dept forecasts 2,900,241 tourists, a moderate growth of 6.49% with US$435.8 million, a 7.3% increase
HIV/AIDS cases in Laos jump to almost 5,000 (ANN/VT)
Almost 5,000 people in total have tested positive for HIV/AIDS in Laos, according to the National Centre for HIV/AIDS/STIs...  the main cause of the surge in HIV infections was unsafe sex. He added that the disease was on the rise in Laos despite the centre's campaigns among target groups.  Vientiane reported the highest number of people infected with
Lao-Thai: Human trafficking rackets thrive (Bangkok Post)
Most common are the rackets which con young girls, most of whom are from Laos, to work as prostitutes. He said the traffickers pose as brokers to meet the girls, mostly from poor families, in Laos. They promise them jobs as domestic helpers or shop assistants in Thailand. Pol Maj Gen Chawalit said the rackets give the girls forged passports which make them
US backs Lao bid for WTO membership (VT)
Laos has gained the vote of the United States in support of its bid for membership in the World Trade Organisation, which represents a milestone in the country's plans for regional integration. Lao and US officials reached an agreement to conclude bilateral negotiations on March 14. This represents official US support for Laos to become a member of the WTO
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos, Myanmar deepen cooperation (VT)
... Travelogue: Taking it easy in Laos (Denver Post)
... Laos Pushes For 2013 WTO Accession (Tax News)
... Laos, Thailand to resume trade, border talks (Nation)
... Burma and Laos Agree Friendship Bridge Deal (Irrawady)
... Lao PM calls for better management of water resources (VT)
... New Year's celebration in Laos is one wet and colorful affair (Denver Post)
... Remains of revolutionary leaders to be relocated to National Cemetery (VT)
... EU backs water, food security in Xayaboury (VT)
... Myanmar president arrives in Vientiane today (VT)
... Laos faces pressure with Thai inflation impact (ANN/VT)
... Vietnam won't cut taxes on cars imported from Laos (VN)
... Laos needs measures to avoid Thai inflation impact: Economist (LV)
... Laos, Thailand agree to boost cooperation, address border issues (VT)
... Lao-Thai Border: Panel agrees to finish demarcation by 2016 (Bangkok Post)
... Laos ends gambling in former casino city (Bangkok Post)
... Boten Golden City to become casino-free zone (VT)
... Japan signs ODA loan on southern Laos project (VT)
... Stalled Laos talks set to resume after 5-year hiatus (BP)
... Lao-Thai: Thaksin denies he will return for Songkran (BP)
... Viet soldiers off to Laos to assist rural poor (VietnamNews)
... Laos: Ministry details IT expansion plan, lists achievements (VT)
... Lao scholarships now open for Vietnamese candidates (TrouitreNews)
... Swiss doctors help Lao newborns survive (VT)
... Govt urges Lao Chamber of Commerce to set targets (VT)
... Deputy PM highlights eight points to develop IT in Laos (VT)
... Laos poised for WTO membership by end-2012 (AFP/Yahoo)
... Lao-American: Man brutally beaten, robbed in Bridgeport (News 12)
... Laos, Japan cement longstanding friendship (VT)
... Russia to strengthen ties with Laos (ANN/Yahoo)
... Laos and Vietnam pledge even stronger bond (VT)
... Co-operation with Laos strengthened (Vietnam News)
... New land-based services increase Thai-Laos connections (TTG)




March 12-18, 2012



Lao-Thai: Path to casino road to ruin (Bangkok Post)
A senior Thai diplomat in the western Laos city of Savannakhet has raised concerns about Thais who cross the second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge from Thailand's Mukdahan to "get lucky" gambling at a casino there. Russ Jalichandra, the Thai consul-general to Savannakhet, said he wants the Thai government to implement effective measures to prevent Thai people
Japan to provide Laos with $63m loan (AsiaOne or Mainichi)
Japan pledged on Friday to provide Laos with a low-interest official loan worth about 4.2 billion yen (S$63.5 million) for a power system development project in the country's southern region. The promise was made when Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda met his Laotian counterpart Thongsing Thammavong, who arrived in Tokyo on Wednesday
Travel to Laos & Vietnam: Up close and personal (Bangkok Post)
Navigating through Laos proved a piece of cake but entering Vietnam it was another story. If you thought nowhere could it be tougher than driving through Bangkok's rush hours, think twice. Try driving a few hours in Vietnam, even a few minutes in Hanoi, particularly during rush hour, and you will find yourself in the middle of a rioting traffic.  
Laos Vegas: Chinese crosses border to build his gambling empire (Good)
In the northeast corner of the Golden Triangle, where the Ruak River is swallowed by the Mekong and three countries meet in a confluence of sandbars, hills, and inhospitable jungle, there is a gigantic, golden crown just visible over a cluster of Laotian palm trees. It sits on top of the Kings Romans Casino, a Chinese-run gambling operation that pops up suddenly
Vietnam, Laos step up military co-operation (AsiaOne)
The Viet Nam People's Army and the Lao People's Army will continue their exchange of visits, sharing experiences in ideological and political education and co-operation in personnel training. They will also step up their coordination in searching for and gathering the remains of Vietnamese military experts and soldiers who died in Laos and repatriate them to their
Lao-Thai traffic surges after new Friendship Bridge opens (VT)
Tourism and trade between Laos and Thailand have seen a lot of positive changes since the opening of the third Friendship Bridge in November last year.  The bridge connects Veun Tai village in Thakhek district, Khammuan province, to Hom village in Meuang district of Thailand's Nakhon Phanom province across the Mekong River.
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos, Argentina boost cooperation (VT)
... Thaksin to celebrate Songkran in Laos (Nation)
... Side trips on the road to Luang Prabang (TTR Weekly)
... Vietnam signs contract for gold exploration in Laos (VN)
... Why Luang Prabang. Why Laos. Why visit now (Examiner)
... Thai power firm ramps up job creation in Laos (ANN/Yahoo)
... Thai company to explore for coal in Vientiane province (LV/VT)
... FSX Air America In Laos - Vietnam War Project Scener (FAS)
... Vientiane: Donedaeng road to be ready for ASEM Summit (VT)
... Viet leaders Leaders pledge even stronger bond with Laos (VN)
... Lao-American: Soukhamthath's ready to make his mark in MMA (WC)
... Laos: Silk weaving ties past traditions with a promising future (LV/VT)
... One last fight for secret soldiers: Hmong seek recognition as vets (ST)
... Plain of Jars: Where giants partied and the US dropped their bombs (RTB)
... Northern Laos: Rural devpt. program to ease poverty in Xayaboury, Oudomxay
... Christians persecuted in Laos as violations of religious freedom continue (AN)
... Vietnamese company builds starch plant in Laos (Nhan Dan)
... Vientiane May Face Risky Inundation Due To Many Storms (VT)
... Thai princess visits agriculture development centre in Laos (VT)
... Europe provides more aid for Southeast Asian flood victims (VT)
... Lao energy developer powers on (LV/VT)
... Southern Laos: Malaria in Attapeu (AlertNet)
... Repair of Road No. 13 north begins (LV/VT)
... Buddha images missing in Luang Prabang (VT)
... 89 Buddha images missing in Laos (ANN/Yahoo)
... Haze and Smoke in Thailand from Laos and Burma fires (GoAsia)
... Kuwait''s first resident ambassador to Laos takes office (Kuwait NA)
... Patrols put dent in Mekong River attacks (China Daily)
... Northern Laos: Hike to Houy Fai Peak (OWW)
... Laos marks one-year anniversary of Japan earthquake (VT)
... Friendship bridge boosts Thai-Lao trade ties (Asian News Net)
... Report: Laos Christian Facing Ultimatum To Recant Faith (WN)
... Laos: Why cycle? Earth’s future riding on pedal power (LV/VT)
... French NGO delivers healthcare for birthing mothers in Champassak (LV)
... Ord River Resources in pre-open pending capital raising announcement (PAI)




March 5-11, 2012




Laos monkey farms raise alarms (Time Live or AFP/Yahoo)
Thousands of monkeys are being held in overcrowded and barren farms in Laos and sold for international laboratory research, according to a report from a British animal protection group.  Laos has exported nearly 35,000 long-tailed macaques since 2004 as part of a fast-growing trade in the species for research, the British Union for the Abolition of
Laos’ Unethical Monkeys (Diplomat)
When it comes to neighborly relations, Laos has often walked a fine line. Its insistence on, then a “maybe, maybe not” attitude to the construction of the Xayaburi Dam that threatens fish stocks in the lower reaches of the Mekong River, has tested relations with Vietnam and Cambodia. More broadly, its inability to curb wildlife trafficking has been a bone of
Laos: Dining with dioxin (Faster Times)
Mrs. Saw had a gravely voice that bugled commands in a grandmotherly way. “Sit down! she insisted. We obeyed, and she shoved steaming plates and bowls of homemade food our way—minced-meat salad, noodle soup, and fresh fish from the river. We ate at Mrs. Saw’s little wooden restaurant near the old Ho Chi Minh Trail most every day and night for nearl
Small dams, big impact on Mekong River fish: study (AFP/Google)
Plans to build hydropower dams along small branches of southeast Asia's longest river could have a devastating impact on millions of people who rely on the world's largest inland fishery, scientists said Monday... "The beneficiary of the production would be Laos, producing energy mostly for export into Thailand and Vietnam, while the impact would be felt by Cambodia
China to help Laos switch to digital radio, TV (VT)
China has agreed to help Laos transfer its analog broadcasting system to the Chinese terrestrial digital standard and construct a digital radio and television network throughout the country...  The project is one of several included in the master plan on economic and technical cooperation between the two countries for the period 2011 to 2015. 
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Family Travels to Laos to Help Students (KULR8)
... Laotians arrested in Vietnam ecstasy bust (AsiaOne)
... China assists Laos in post-flood reconstruction (PD)
... Vietnamese Justice Ministry delegation visits Laos (TN)
... Lao PM pledges assistance to VN businesses (MCOT)
... Lao father and son caught carrying drugs into Vietnam (TNN)
... EU delegates visit repatriated Hmong community in Laos (VT)
... Chinese assistance to rebuild flood-hit communities in Laos (VT)
... Laotians in US: Providence police raid gang house, seize gun and drugs (JP)
... Petrol prices up in Laos (VT)
... Women's event gets Laotian guest (NS)
... Dry Mekong Hinders Lao Merchants (RFA)
... Le Fevre students help Laos (Portside Messenger)
... UNDP country programme action plan reviewed (VT)
... Ministry commemorates International Women's Day (VT)
... Rural Women in Laos Face High Maternal Mortality (RFA)
... Laos Airlines to operate new route to Da Nang (Nhan Dan)
... Your Scene: Generational contrast in Laos (Los Angeles Times)
... Report: Laos Christian Facing Ultimatum To Recant Faith (BNL)
... Southern Laos: Fire engulfs shops in central Pakxe (VT)
... Malaysia eyes further investment in Laos (ANN)
... Prayuth asks Myanmar, Laos to curb fires (Bangkok Post)
... Food security a priority for Oudomxay's former opium farmers (VT)
... Agriculture projects receive farm equipment for rice seed improvement (VT)
... Laos opens cave tourism (TTR Weekly)
... Australia strengthens ties with Laos (AS)
... American Law: Chanthabandith v. Holder (Leagle)
... Laos, Brazil agree to waive visas for govt officials (VT)
... Laos steps up preparations for Asia-Europe meeting (VT)
... Xieng Khuang school struggles to build new classrooms (VT)
... Child Sponsorship Report 2011, from Vientiane, Laos (SOS CV)
... A damming assessment of Mekong development (Nature)
... Construction of Laos' Mekong dam project continues despite call for reassessment
... Dry season rice crop falls short of target in Laos (VT)
... Australia backs natural disaster recovery in Xayaboury (VT)
... Pool tournament on March 5 helps raise money for Laos schools (BG)





Feb. 27-Mar. 4, 2012



Taking the American dream back to Laos (Billings Gazette)
Tears cloud Khanthaly Keutla's eyes when she talks about the Billings church, St. Luke's Episcopal, and the Hagstrom family for helping bring her family to Billings in 1981. She and her husband Sisavath (Sie) brought four of their children with them after they fled Laos, arriving in Billings with little more than the clothes on their backs. Khanthaly has held on
12 Vietnamese killed in Lao traffic accident (TN)
A serious traffic accident occurred in the Lao province of Apatu on Thursday evening, killing 12 Vietnamese and injuring 8 others, police in Vietnam’s Kon Tum Province reported. The accident happened on the evening of February 1 when a 16-seat van that departed from the border gate in Kon Tum carrying 20 people, including 18 passengers and the van driver
Thais accused of Laos' dam deceit (Eco-Business)
The Thai government is defying a regional decision-making process by proceeding with the implementation of a controversial US$3.8 billion hydropower dam project in northern Laos, an environmental group said yesterday. “Recent oversight hearings by the Thai Senate and the National Human Rights Commission confirm that the government has joined Laos in
Vang Vieng: Backpacker heaven or hedonistic hell? (CNN Go)
Magic mushroom shake? Opium pizza? Bucket of whiskey anyone? Welcome to Vang Vieng, former traditional farming village, now hot point of drugs, booze, techno and partying and Laos’ hottest backpacker haunt. The rise -- perhaps that should be fall -- of this town sitting on the Nam Song River and surrounded by beautiful karst scenery, has been dramatic,
Nok Air offers bus hop to Laos (TTR Weekly)
Nok Air will team up with bus companies to provide an overland connection from Udon Thani to Vientiane starting 14 March. Restricted to just domestic services in Thailand, Nok Air will offer passengers travelling to Udon Thani, the nearest airport town to Nong Khai on the border with Laos, a bus service to the immigration checkpoint. It hopes to capture some
Government confiscates 3 churches in Laos (Catholic Culture or RFA)
Communist officials in Savannakhet Province, which is located in the south-central part of Laos, have confiscated three churches in recent weeks, according to Human Rights Watch for Lao Religious Freedom. After calling residents in Kengweng to a seminar entitled “Tricks of the Enemy,” Communist officials ordered the Christian church closed and forbade
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos, Australia strengthen ties (VT)
... PTT gets two-year Laos contract (Nation)
... Collection of land tax changes hands (VT)
... Biofuels a growing industry in Laos (ANN)
... Burial for Hmong, Lao veterans sought (DP)
... 50 pangolins en route to Laos seized (NST)
... Laos welcomes Eco Bike Tour (TTR Weekly)
... Ben Shaw: Camera brings world into focus (RP)
... Laos honours Vietnamese investors (Nhan Dan)
... Asean media ministers enhance cooperation (VT)
... Better grain storage key to Laos food security (ANN)
... Laos: ‘Recant Faith In Christ Or Face Expulsion’ (BNL)
... Arthouse Cafe stands out among the competition in Luang Prabang
... Lufthansa considering routes to Burma, Laos, Cambodia (Nation)
... Lao-Thai Travel: Sublime connection (BP)
... Lao writer uses talents to help others (PE)
... Thailand Pushes Xayaburi Dam (Asia Sentinel)
... Mekong summit set for April 21 (Japan Times)
... Japan provides additional funding for Khammuan (VT)
... Contractor killed at Minmetals' Sepon mine in Laos (MB)
... Lack of legal knowledge still an obstacle to justice in Laos (VT)
... Germany supports sustainable development of mining sector (VT)
... Catalyst Resource Group to Acquire Gold Concession in Laos (SC or MW)
... Laos and Mongolia look to cooperate beyond politics (MM)
... Champassak receives more funding for irrigation repairs (VT)
... UXO detection equipment test site to set standard in Laos (VT)
... Norwegian project extends support for livelihood alternatives in Luang Namtha
... Asean Needs To Increase Exchange Of News & Info - Laos Senior Official
... Laos top official visits Mongolia (MAD-M)
... Chinese, Thai visitors flock to Laos (VT)
... Lao set to open new resort (eTBA)
... Lao Airlines postpones Vientiane-Houayxai flight due to haze (VT)
... Laos sates culture lust with Luang Prabang’s papaya body scrubs (Bloomberg)
... Modern irrigation system rains down benefits on Lao farmers (VT)
... Situation of minorities remains dire as Laos goes before the 
    UN Committee on Elimination of Racial Discrimination (SIDH)
... Awkward political moment for Laos deputy PM (Herald Sun)
... ADB provides clean water for Vientiane province (VT)
... Japan gives aid to Laos for UXO victims (Individual)
... Lao Prime Minister visits Viet provinces (VT)
... Viet PM Dung greets Lao counterpart (VN)
... Pedal power to open up the Mekong (TTR Weekly)
... Elephant festival to boost Laos tourism (eTB)





February 20-26, 2012



Off the air in Laos (Asia Times)
Amid an unprecedented flurry of public debate and critique of government policies and actions, Lao authorities abruptly canceled a popular call-in radio program in late January without any public explanation. The program, Talk of the News, ran for four consecutive years and encouraged the public to comment on issues of the day through often anonymous
Drug Trade Booms in Vang Vieng (RFA)
The illegal drug trade is booming in Vang Vieng, a top tourist destination in Laos, even though several drug-linked deaths involving foreigners have been reported there, according to tourists. Drugs were found to be easily available even after a crackdown by authorities on establishments such as bars, restaurants and other entertainment outlets suspected
Why backpackers are dying in Vang Vieng, Laos (RTB)
A 19-year old Australian tourist went missing while tubing down the Xong River on January 23 and it took three days for his body to be found in the deep part of the river. His name was Daniel Eimutis and he was on holiday in Vang Vieng, Laos with six of his friends. Earlier last month another young Australian died after jumping from a platform into the same river.
Drugs on the menu for Aussie tourists in Laos (Nine MSN)
When going out for a night on the town in Laos, on the menu for the typical Australian tourist will be magic mushrooms, cannabis and even opium. The pubs literally have menus listing all those drugs — and even "disco buckets" containing some of each. When 24-year-old Nathan, from Newcastle, went to Laos for a few days during a tour of South-East Asia last Nov.
China investment in Laos rises to 731.5 million dollars in 2011 (M&C)
Chinese investment in Laos reached 731.5 million dollars last year, making China the leading investor in the communist country, a state-run newspaper said Thursday. The investment was an increase from 2001 when China invested 556 million dollars and from 2009's 247 million dollars, according to the Lao government. China accounted for 99 investment projects
Lao Central bank issues warning on fake dollar bills (VT)
The Bank of the Lao PDR is urging the public to join forces to combat a rising tide of fake US dollar banknotes and other foreign currencies. The central bank made the call last week after learning that a group of people were circulating large numbers of fake US$100 notes and other currencies in Laos. The bank is concerned about the damage this can inflict both
Lao Woman Lost Millions To African & Russian Scam Gang in Pattaya (PM)
A Lao woman was allegedly swindled out of 21 million THB by the "Nigerian 419" e-mail scam. The gang was later arrested in a Pattaya seaside condominium. The African-Russian gang sent her an e-mail, claiming that 2 million USD belonging to a retiring US navy admiral who wanted to marry her. But the money was locked in an UN account. Her help was
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Four die, 13 hurt in Lao bus plunge (VN)
... Lao Govt approves electricity rate hike (LV/VT)
... NZ aid helping turn Laos into tourist attraction (Stuff)
... U.S. helps Laos prepare for 'natural' disaster (PW)
... Communist classics translated into Laotian (Nhan Dan)
... VN, Laos cooperate to complete border markers (Baomoi)
... Thai-Lao to expand trade, investment in hopes of doubled growth (PM)
... Laos Prime Minister Explores Further Cooperation with Vietnam (PL)
... Laos Government “Confiscates” Church Building, Group Says (BNL)
... China assists Laos to build ASEM conference center (People Daily)
... Ground-breaking ceremony held for ASEM conference centre (VT)
... Norway, US fund UXO clearance in southern provinces (VT)
... Lao Govt approves new policies at monthly meeting (VT)
... RS To Extend Music Download Service To Laos (AMJ)
... Egco to invest Bt10 bn to keep revenue level (Nation)
... Thailand, Laos pledge to double trade (Nation)
... Laos, China sign 6 bilateral deals (ANN)
... Laos to offer online trading soon (ANN)
... Elephants draw tourists to Laos (TRW)
... Earthquakes of little threat to Laos (VT)
... Lao Front dedicated to national solidarity (VT)
... Laos, China sign six cooperation agreements (VT)
... Laos urges use of local currency to avoid counterfeit dollars (M&C)
... Cooperation between Lao farmers needed to meet market demands for food
... Laos boosts tourist stops along Highway No. 9 (M&C)
... Vietnam to support Laos to organise ASEM-9 (MCOT)
... New Lao-Thai bridge needs more support, say businesses (BP)
... WFP's nutrition course spreads good practice in Laos (XinhuaNet)
... Laos Annual Elephant Fest Draws Over 150,000 Visitors (Bernama)
... Early Drought Affects Thai-Laos Transport Across Mekong (Bernama)
... Getting Away: Luang Prabang (GK)
... New law to bolster social security fund in Laos (VT)
... Eco Plaza Shop to provide youths with job opportunities (VT)
... Laos Thanks Germany for Development Assistance (CRI)
... Xayaburi, Laos: Elephant festival draws jumbo crowd (VT)
... Fifth bridge to Laos to be proposed at Udon meeting (BP)
... Laos: Developer to request foreign labour for ASEM hotel (VT)
... Lao Vice President urges focus on poverty reduction in Savannakhet (VT)
... Plan your own trip to Southeast Asia (Journal Star)



February 13-19, 2012



Laos tuber's near-death ride (Sydney MH or Herald Sun)
The lucky escape of a Melbourne woman who could have died tubing in Laos this week has prompted a warning to young travellers to beware the risks of drinking unknown alcohol. Susie Morris says her daughter, Annika, 19, needed to be pulled to the side of a river in Vang Vieng on Monday after falling desperately unwell. She had preivously taken a shot of locally-made
Luang Prabang wins ‘world’s best city’ award for 2nd year (Easier or VT)
Luang Prabang in Laos has just been voted the best city in the world to visit for the second year in a row by readers of one of the UK’s leading national travel magazines. Bamboo Travel – winner of the Best Tour Operator of the year category at the same awards ceremony in 2011, and runner up in 2012 – offers a choice of itineraries which visits the city including
Laos: Employers of overseas workers must stand surety (VT)
Businesses that hire overseas workers will be required to make a financial deposit as a guarantee to ensure the repatriation of foreigners whose work permits have expired. Under Article 143 of the draft Labour Management Law, businesses that hire foreign employees to work in Laos must provide guarantee money equal to the cost of each worker's return airfare
New bus route boosts Laos connections (Bangkok Post)
The Transport Company announced a plan to introduce its air-conditioned bus service from Udon Thani in Thailand's Northeast to Vang Vieng in Laos soon.  According to the company's managing director, Wuttichat Kanlayanamit, the service will be available in addition to its current service between Udon Thani and Vientiane. Formerly an overnight stop for tourists
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Thai-Lao trade talk this month (Nation)
... Laid-back Luang Prabang voted best city (TT)
... Diplomatic corps informed of ASEM preparations (VT)
... Laos launches programme to promote decent work for all (VT)
... Laos prepares for ninth Asia-Europe Meeting (Nhan Dan or VNN)
... Lao food festival at Lao New Year celebration in Central Florida (Examiner)
... ASEAN, Laos and Vietnam: no to human rights and religious freedom (AN)
... Free whisky nearly kills Melbourne teen (Nine MSN)
... Three dead in Valentine's Day road accidents (VT)
... Korean experts study drainage of That Luang Marsh (VT)
... Mekong catfish offers a test of strength and patience (Star)
... Lao-Thai: EGAT looks beyond country borders for new projects (BP)
... Laos, Timor-Leste seek closer relations (VT)
... Jazz comes to Vientiane, Laos (All About Jazz)
... Asian unicorn threatened by habitat loss (Times Live)
... Lao Brewery launches new advertising campaign (LV/VT)
... Authorities accelerate work on ASEM Summit venues (VT)
... Australia extends support for children in Xieng Khuang (VT)
... Southern Laos: Work begins on Attapeu International Airport (VT)
... Vientiane Tourism Division Promotes Visit Laos Year 2012 (Bernama)
... World Bank calls for integrated urban flood risk management in Laos (VT)
... Laos backs Vietnam's bid for top investor ranking (ANN)
... HAGL starts work on $40 mln airport in Laos (TN)
... Kiwi firm helps make Laos a safer place (Stuff)
... Laos backs Vietnam's bid for top investor ranking (VT)
... Savannakhet builds tourist trail along Road No. 9 (VT)
... Domestic terminal upgrade to improve passenger travel in Laos (VT)
... Elgin Lao organization making effort to get out community vote (Sun Times)



February 6-12, 2012



Vang Vieng, Laos: backpacker mecca turned disaster magnet? (GP)
The young man kicks back a free shot of whiskey and begins to make his way up the towering bamboo ladder. He falters on a slippery rung — there’s a breathless moment before he regains his footing and continues up to the platform overlooking the river. The crowd of backpackers, their half-naked bodies spray-painted neon and smeared with mud, lift up
River of drugs and booze in Laos (Adelaide Now)
IT'S a laidback lifestyle attracting adventurous Aussies, but it can be lethal. The Department of Foreign Affairs estimates about 30,000 Australians visit Laos each year and the death of three in a month has put the South-East Asian nation in the headlines. One recently returned Melburnian, who didn't want to be named, said Aussies loved Laos because drugs were
Australian man found dead alongside Dutch girl in Laos drug den (Telegraph)
A YOUNG Victorian man and Dutch woman found dead in a Laos hotel room with drugs nearby were holding each other when they died. Alexander Lee, 22, of Yarraville, was found dead alongside Rianne Brouwer in their hotel in Nongkio Village, in the central province of Luang Prabang, on Tuesday. Local doctor Say Phanom told the Herald Sun drugs were
Mum grieves over son's drug death in Laos (Perth Now or Age)
Alexander Lee, 22, of Yarraville, was found dead alongside Dutch woman Rianne Brouwer in their hotel in Nongkio Village, in the central province of Luang Prabang, on Tuesday. Local doctor Say Phanom told the Herald Sun drugs were found near the bodies. Mr Lee's mother, Mary-Anne Rushford, said her family were struggling for information on how he died.
Laos couple died in each other's arms (Nine MSN)
A Melbourne backpacker and his girlfriend who died in Laos were found lying in each other's arms in a hotel room strewn with prescription medication, according to a local tourism official. It is believed 22-year-old Alexander Lee, of Yarraville, died before 18-year-old Rianne Brouwer, from Bakkum in the Netherlands, but it is not yet known what caused their deaths
Third Australian found dead in Laos (PLT or Australian)
A Victorian man has been found dead in a Laos hotel room. The 22-year-old, who was in Luang Prabang when he died, is the third Australian tourist to die in the south-east Asian country in the past month. His body was found with the body of a woman, believed to be from the Netherlands, a spokesman for the Luang Prabang tourism department said. 
Laos probes sale of babies to foreigners (News24 or Sidney MH)
Laos is investigating a retired justice ministry official for allegedly selling adopted babies to Americans, Canadians and Australians for thousands of dollars each, a report said. The official is accused of seeking out unwanted babies in poor, rural areas, obtaining adoption papers and selling the infants, all aged between one and two years, on to foreigners for up
Laos: New projects to improve public service delivery (VT)
The Ministry of Home Affairs has launched two projects worth US$13.7 million that aim to strengthen governance and facilitate better service delivery to the Lao people.  The projects are supported by the UNDP, the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, and the Republic of Korea.
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Vietnam President concludes Laos visit (Saigon)
... Land of a Million Elephants festival - Feb 15-19 (LV)
... Laos, Vietnam boost cooperative ties (VT)
... Laos, Vietnam boost media, culture ties (ANN)
... Lao Movie: Bright light on the 'Horizon' (Nation)
... Vinachem invests $450m in Laos (Vietnam News)
... Vietnamese businesses support Lao development (VT)
... Special economic zone proposed for Xieng Khuang (VT)
... NTT to offer global Internet access in Laos (Japan Times)
... Vietnam, Laos sign TV cooperation deal (Vietnam News)
... Hydropower projects to light up northern provinces (LV/VT)
... Borikhamxay dam to bolster dry season power supply (LV/VT)
... Thailand, Laos To Jointly Fight Contagious Diseases (Bernama)
... U.S. Embassy Supports Lao Teachers of English (US Embassy)
... Vietnamese president to arrive in Laos today (VT)
... Laos, Vietnam boost information and culture ties (VT)
... Laos, US, UNICEF, WFP team up for anti-malnutrition (Brunei)
... Laos: Companies to explore mining, hydropower possibilities (VT)
... Love and hate in Laos (Independent)
... Ministry elects new Party leaders (VT)
... Lao PM hopes power plant will create more jobs (VT)
... Rural growth key to Millennium Development Goals (VT)
... Champassak kicks off Visit Laos Year in style (VT)
... Lao Govt to resurface road to National Stadium (VT)
... Pump-free irrigation schemes under study in Laos (VT)
... Water is opening doors to the unreached in Laos (ONN)
... China, Laos pledge to expand mutually beneficial cooperation (PD)
... Laos closing in on WTO membership (ANN)
... Xekong's Kaleum district makes way for hydro plant (VT)
... ADB backs agricultural development in northern Laos (VT)
... Laos: More road upgrades ahead of ASEM Summit (LV/VT)
... Get a feel for Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam with a local (Telegraph)




Jan 30-Feb 5, 2012



ADB grant to protect biodiversity corridors in Laos (VT)
The Asian Development Bank will provide US$20 million to the Lao government for the second phase of its Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Project (BCCP) in southern Laos. The funding will allow the project to continue from 2011-2019, and forms part of a collaborative conservation effort between the countries of the Greater Mekong Sub-region
Laos river tubing, turbulent waters (eTBB)
While most visitors leave Vang Vieng with nothing more serious than a hangover, the once tranquil setting in Laos is now a craze of river tubing and riverside bars, making this latest ‘must do’ activity also the most dangerous place in Laos for travellers. To many adventurous travellers visiting Laos, a highlight would be floating down the Nam Song River on a tractor
Road upgrades planned for northern Laos (VT)
Some US$42.3 million will be spent to improve roads in the northern provinces of Huaphan and Xieng Khuang. Bids are being invited from companies wishing to undertake the project. Deputy Director of Huaphan provincial Public Works and Transport Department Mr Phonesouk Inthavong told Vientiane Times on Monday “The survey and design phases
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Biking in Laos (San Diego Reader)
... Zipping through the jungles of Laos (Crikey)
... Lao cement industry urged for reforms (ANN)
... Lao-American Obituary: Khay Baccam (SCJ)
... Land use policies under scrutiny in Laos (VT)
... Laos: Drilling commences at Xinzhai project (Irasia)
... Drills for copper, silver extensions at Xinzhai project in Laos
... Laos bank uses NZ payments technology (Computer World)
... Lao Party seeks to bolster propaganda at grass roots level (VT)
... Regional knowledge sharing strengthens rural livelihoods in Laos(VT)
... Vientiane Steel sees pick up in steel demand in Laos in Feb (SG)
... Lao Deputy PM calls for more detailed register of UXO victims (VT)
... UNPO UN Reports Highlight Persecution Of Indigenous Peoples In Vietnam & Laos
... Vientiane: New hotel on track for ASEM Summit (VT)
... Dining at the Charming Lao Hotel, Oudomxai, Laos (Examiner)
... Japan to help Laos with environmentally friendly public transport (VT)
... Small Saffron Deli delivers on big Southeast Asian flavors ~ Laos (IP)
... Lao-American: Drexel MBA Student Begins Prestigious Valley Vision Fellowship
... The Best Restaurants of Luang Prabang (Venere)
... Govt approves Vientiane urban development plan (VT)
... Fund boosts health prospects in Laos' northern provinces (VT)
... The Complexities of Peace and Religious Freedom in Laos (PZ)
... Laos Opens New Tourism Site Phoukeng Mountain In Paek District (Bernama)
... Conference centre for ASEM Summit 20 percent complete (VT)
... Laos committed to meeting UNESCO priorities (VT)
... Germany backs growth of Lao forestry (VT)




January 23-29, 2012



Melbourne student dies in second tubing tragedy in Laos (SMH or News)
The body of a Melbourne teenager has been found in a river in Laos, three days after he disappeared while tubing in the popular tourist destination. Daniel Eimutis, 19, was on holidays with six friends when he disappeared at Vang Vieng on Monday night, triggering a frantic search by family and friends.  The University of Melbourne student’s aunt, Anna
In Luang Prabang, Lao New Year is drenched in color — and water (WP)
As our minivan rounded a mountain pass, a gaggle of giggling teenagers appeared at the fringe of a thatched-roof village. Hey, I thought, what’s with the buckets and the water guns?  Splash! Ah. I’d traveled to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to ring in the Lao New Year, but I had only a vague notion of how wet things were about to get.
Lao Govt postpones this year's logging quota (VT)
The government has decided not to approve this year's logging quota from production forests due to a lack of detailed planning, except where required along road corridors, mine sites or hydropower plants... The government has gradually reduced the timber quota it has approved, from 600,000 cubic metres in 2008 to less than 200,000 cubic metres in 2011.
Laos-focused miner PanAust slips despite posting strong result (Australian)
LAOS-focused miner PanAust expects higher copper output this year but production costs are likely to rise as it upgrades the processing plant at its flagship Phu Kham mine.  Shares in the company backtracked, despite its production report for last year being solid, Ord Minnett senior resources analyst Peter Arden said. PanAust finished down 13c, or 3.49%, at $3.60.
Wattay airport extension underway (VT)
The improvements at Wattay International Airport are progressing as planned and are set to be completed before the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Summit to be held in Vientiane in November. Funded by grant aid from the government of Japan and a low interest loan from the government of China, the improvements will enable the airport to accommodate more
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Burma Changes Prompt Lao Debate (RFA)
... Phu Bia to open new gold mine in Laos (LV/VT)
... Dining at Ban Vilaylac, Vientiane, Laos (Examiner)
... 32nd Institut Pasteur Launched In Vientiane, Laos (AS)
... Four killed, three injured as UXO continues to haunt Laos (VT)
... Forecast, 2011 - 2015: Laos to Have 6.2 Million Mobile Subscriber (CNBC)
... UNPFA Pledges To Help Laos On Mother And Child Health Care (Bernama)
... Disruption to cement distribution seen as cause of price hike in Vientiane (VT)
... 326 prisoners in Vientiane granted pardon (VT)
... Tributes flow after tubing tragedy claims teen (Sydney MH)
... ADB Loans US$5 Million To Boost Agriculture In Laos (Bernama)
... Laos' river of booze and tubes may be river of no return (Sydney MH)
... National Commission for UNESCO urged to improve coordination (VT)
... ‘Easter New Year’ in Laos (Easier Travel)
... In Laos, tubing can be deadly (Global Post)
... Lao Central Bank to issue 100,000 kip note (VT)
... Melbourne man killed in Laos tubing accident (ABC)
... Lao Govt reaffirms readiness to host ASEM Summit (VT)
... Poor management a barrier to forestry targets in Laos (VT)
... Hydropower Driving Social Change in Laos (Jakarta Globe)
... HM the King receives a thanks cable from Laos President (BNA)
... Saitama Prefecture Pledges To Continue To Help Laos (Bernama)
... ADB loan to boost small agribusiness in Laos (VT)
... Lao PM urges focus on tackling social problems (VT)
... EU advises Asean to look at integrated food chain control (VT)
... Business booming for the dog smugglers of the Mekong (CNN)
... The Trauma of Escape: A Hmong Refugee's Journey to the U.S. (Cal Report)
... PanAust expects earnings growth (SMH)
... Laos aiming to speed up UXO clearance (VT)
... An Alternative to Tubing in Vang Vieng (OWW)
... EU aid to Laos to remain despite euro crisis (MTZ)
... EU aid to Laos not to be affected by euro crisis (VT)
... Lao PM praises progress in Pakngum of Vientiane (VT)
... Chinese, Vietnamese communities rejoice at New Year (VT)
... Electronic payments to increase accountability in Laos (VT)
... Laos to Use e-Payments for Loan Accountability (Loan Safe)
... No political agenda for Thaksin’s visit to Laos (Pattaya Daily News)




January 16-22, 2012



Xayaburi Dam: What Next? (International Rivers)
On December 8th, we watched the future of the Mekong River hang by the threads of a single meeting. Government ministers from Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam met to decide whether to approve Laos’ controversial Xayaburi Dam, the first of twelve large dams across the Mainstream Mekong River. Scientists warn that the dams would decimate the Mekong
Absence Of Law Fuels Trafficking in Laos (RFA)
The absence of a specific law to check human trafficking in Laos is fueling the smuggling of newborn babies in the country, officials acknowledged Wednesday. This "loophole" allows human traffickers to pose as "adopted parents," making it difficult for officials to distinguish them from "genuine adopted parents" and even more difficult to indict them due to lack of
Customs Agents Intercept Smuggled Animal Skulls from Laos (SFW or MN)
In a statement this morning, the agency announced that six mouse deer skulls were found concealed in bags of dried fruit peels at the international mail center at San Francisco International Airport. The mail came from Laos, and was destined for Minnesota. The fruit peels and skulls (pictured) ) were seized and destroyed. The mouse deer, also known
iPad 5 4G, iPhone clamshell and other Apple rip-offs found in Laos (NW)
The last few months have seen considerable speculation mount about the kind of products that Apple might be putting out today. I am currently spending some time in Laos, where I saw the future…of sorts. Laos, alongside many of its Southeast Asian neighbours, is well known for producing counterfeit goods of all types, and with the world going technology crazy
Laos: Bird flu risk not to be sneezed at (VT)
The Vientiane Health Department has advised vendors to be extremely vigilant and sell only healthy poultry, hoping to avert a bird flu outbreak after recent reports of the virus in other Asian countries.  The warning comes as the Chinese and Vietnamese New Year approaches, when thousands of families will buy extra ducks and chickens for celebratory meals.
Nam Phou project approved after sixth design (VT)
Authorities have finally given the go ahead to plans for the development of Nam Phou in central Vientiane after the design was finalised at a meeting last week.  Vice Mayor of Vientiane Mr Anouphab Tounalom informed the Vientiane Times of the decision after the meeting, saying the authorities have finally agreed to the project design, which is the sixth
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Laos & Vietnam: Blokes on bikes (Stuff)
... Laos luxury at Hotel de la Paix (Examiner)
... Golf: Laos to host first professional tournament (TI)
... Lao leaders observe military training operations (VT)
... Golf-Laos to host first professional tournament (Yahoo)
... Pittsfield native brings hope to youth in Laos (Berkshire Eagle)
... Lao Government Launched Website, 9th Asem Logo (Bernama)
... Duty-free shopping complex in Lao capital gets green light (M&C)
... No political agenda for Thaksin's visit to Laos: Noppadol (MCOT)
... Fine Dining in Laos: Vientiane’s Kong View Restaurant (Examiner)
... EU confident of Laos' success in hosting Asia-Europe Summit (Yahoo)
... AsiaBaseMetals Agrees to Acquire Majority Interest in Laos Potash Project
... Banque Franco-Lao taps GFG Group and Bred IT for private label debit card
... UNDP backs ministry's efforts to achieve development goals in Laos (VT)
... Nation Building in Laos (UNC)
... Groups Peddle 'Legal' Babies in Laos (RFA)
... Vietnam boasts telecom bonanza in Laos (VN)
... Natalie takes on life-saving bike challenge in Laos (IM)
... Lao PM visits focus areas to stimulate development (VT)
... 50-villa project in Vientiane is on track for ASEM Summit (VT)
... Electronic systems planned for Laos' special economic zones (VT)
... Lao President calls for army unity (VT)
... Neb. chef finds purpose in Laos (Omaha)
... A culinary trip to [Laos and] Thailand (MN)
... WB finances repairs to Road No. 13 (VT)
... Chinese cargo ship fired on from Laos (M&C)
... Laos sees surge in non-resource exports (VT)
... Hydrotek looking to tap markets in Indochina (BP)
... Relocation of Kaleum district admin office under way (VT)
... Canadian firms seek investment opportunities in Laos (VT)
... ‘Dream son’ who died in Laos home to lay at rest (Leader)
... MoU signed on setting up Laos Records Book Centre (VN)
... Khammuan turns down gov't funding for rice stockpile (VT)
... China says shots fired at cargo boat on Mekong from Laos (AFP/Google)
... Lao Deputy PM stresses need for ‘breakthrough' approach to agriculture (VT)




January 9-15, 2012



Laos Frees Christian Leaders; Churches Confiscated (BNL)
even Christian leaders who were detained and tortured for nearly a month in southern Laos have been released, but concerns remain about "the confiscation" of church buildings, an official assisting them told BosNewsLife Friday, January 13. "Almost one month after their arrest and detention in Boukham village [in the] Ad-Sapathong district [of] Savannakhet
Aussie tells of Laos tubing nightmare (Nine MSN)
A young Melbourne woman badly injured "tubing" in Vang Vieng, Laos, has issued a warning to others not to be "stupid tourists" and take care in the party town. Her warning comes two days after a 26-year-old Australian backpacker died after leaping off a tower and landing awkwardly in the Nam Song River. Vang Vieng, a magnet for backpackers travelling
Laos tourist death 'accident waiting to happen' (News)
WHEN I heard an Australian tourist had been killed while tubing in Laos, I wasn't in the least surprised. While the incident is being described as a "freak accident'', I would say it was more an accident waiting to happen. I travelled to Laos a few years ago and spent a couple of days in Vang Vieng, where the "must do'' backpacker activity is tubing the Nam Song. 
Sydneysider dies leaping into river while 'tubing' in Laos (Sydney MH)
A Sydney man has died after leaping from a tower into a river, while tubing in Laos. Lee Hudswell, 26, of Cronulla in the Sutherland Shire, was on holidays in the south-east Asian country, experiencing the popular river entertainment of floating along on an inner tube.   Brad Haigh, from New Zealand, saw the accident that occurred in the riverside town of
Laos: Asia's new backpacker mecca, from $6 a night (Sydney MH)
Every now and then on the Laos hippie trail you spy a traveller wearing a T-shirt that reads “Been There Don Det”. Most people think it is yet another pun based on the 'hilarities' of the language barrier (see “Same Same But Different”) but actually it's an inside joke for those who had ventured far enough south to visit a small island hidden in the mist of the Mekong
Lao PM urges crackdown on crime (VT)
Social problems are on the rise in Laos, mainly in the form of criminal activities like robberies, illegal trade, prostitution, corruption, and drug abuse and trafficking, according to Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong. Speaking at a meeting yesterday to discuss social problems prevalent in Vientiane, the PM called on the relevant sectors to actively combat
Other stories about Laos around the world
... CIMB sets sight on Laos (BT)
... Lao Alps: A place of mystery (MENA FN)
... Chinese cargo boat attacked in Laos (ANN)
... PanAust boosts copper production in Laos (Nine MSN
... PanAust sets new high for materials moved (Australian)
... Giant catfish caught, released in Champassak (VT)
... Nearly extinct giant catfish caught in Laos (Jakarta Post)
... Nine more Cambodian ‘loggers’ nabbed in Laos (PPP)
... Lao Gov't, UNDP brainstorm 2012 development plans (VT)
... Lao stock market a 'worthy investment' (ANN)
... Combating climate change in Laos (DW-World)
... Sydney man dies on holiday in Laos (Nine MSN)
... Xieng Khuang reveals new tourist attractions (VT)
... Aussie killed tubing in freak holiday accident in Laos (News)
... Borikhamxay villagers ordered to evacuate bomb site (VT)
... Forest protection project takes root in Xekong, Saravan (VT)
... Beauty, adventure, and spa treatments at the Kuang Si Falls near Luang Prabang
... Laos upgrades golf course to economic zone (VN)
... Ban Bear-Bile Farming in China and Laos (Care2)
... New six-lane road in Vientiane gets green light (VT)
... Swiss aid flows to drinking water project in Laos (VT)
... Laos raises bar for foreign ownership (Business Times)
... Govt relaxes foreign share ownership restriction (LV/VT)
... Lao Govt approves funding to power irrigation systems (VT)
... Exploring the Pak Ou Caves near Luang Prabang, Laos (Gadling)
... Laos seeks larger EU market for forest products (LV/VT)
... Talatsao mall vendors to pay tax online (LV/VT)
... Full SSO pay-out for Lao worker (Nation)
... Laos: Party offices to have online link (VT)
... Learning @ My Library, Laos (Epoch Times)
... Vietnam, Laos target $1b trade turnover (VN)
... Recent persecution of Christians in Laos (Catholic Culture)
... Laos: Land tax collection transferred to finance ministry (VT)
... S'pore Red Cross donates $130k to Lao flood relief (AO, CNA)
... Romania next to Liberia and Laos for giving up farming land (AM)
... Pinoys in Laos raise $2,500 for 'Sendong' victims (GMA Network)
... Specialised UXO clearance vehicle soon to reach Xieng Khuang (VT)




January 2-8, 2012



Laos: Road, the River and a Citadel (WEHO News)
The road over the mountains from the Vietnamese border at Tay Trang to I-don’t-know-where in Laos is an engineering marvel, carved out of solid rock, with sheer drops winding through thick jungle, following the gorge of a narrow river far below.  The road is in various stages of construction, none of which is anywhere near finished. Nothing is paved yet, all is raw, rocky,
Land prices in Vientiane soaring sharply (VT)
Land prices in Vientiane have increased many times over in recent years due to the inflow of foreign investment and developing urbanisation. Officials involved in the sector told Vientiane Times yesterday that land in the city centre now sells for US$2,500 to US$3,000 per square metre, especially in areas close to the Morning Market. They attributed the soaring price to
Visit Laos Year 2012 gets underway (VT)
The government declared the start of Visit Laos Year 2012 on New Year's Eve as thousands of revellers gathered to share the final hours of 2011 and count down to the start of 2012.  Deputy Prime Minister Asang Laoly announced the start of the nationwide tourist campaign at the National Culture Hall on Saturday as the minutes ticked away to the end of 2011.
Other stories about Laos around the world
... Dongphosy project rezoned to attract investors (VT)
... Laos, Vietnam agree on further cooperation (VT)
... Vietnam’s Deputy PM welcomed in Laos (TN)
... Vietnam, Laos, Thailand cooperate along shared highways (MCOT)
... Hundreds Attend Memorial Ceremony for General Vang Pao (WSAW)
... Vietnam Rubber Group has 24 projects in Cambodia, Laos (Saigon)
... Life in a foreign city can be difficult but Lao culture still prevails (LV/VT)
... Vietnam sets up first special economic zone in Laos (Vietnam IR)
... Laos to ramp up cattle exports (ANN)
... Almsgivers pay tribute to King Fa Ngum (VT)
... Food festival in Laos gets tastebuds tingling (VT)
... Laos, Vietnam extend war on crime in north (VT)
... Thai Defence minister visits Laos (Bangkok Post)
... Lao-American: Family blends two cultures of eating (BN)
... A guide to giving alms in Laos, South East Asia (Gadling)
... While finding their place in the world, Hmong chose Banning (RG)
... In suspension - Further delays to a planned giant dam in Laos (Economist)
... Field test in Laos: Army extends EMR to humanitarian assistance, disaster relief
... Nongtha wetland cleared for development (VT)
... Govt gives nod to ‘Visit Laos Year 2012' funding (VT)
... Building of fourth Mekong bridge slips behind schedule (VT)
... Kaysone Phomvihane Culture Hall underway in Savannakhet (VT)
... Tan Chong unit to sell SYM bikes in Laos (Sun Daily)
... Lao Central Airlines ready for take-off (MENA FN)
... Border two-step: Lao loggers head home after swap (PPP)
... Laos' continued development fraught with challenges (XN)
... Govt promotes advancement of women for national devpt (VT)
... Northern Laos: Local labour needed to tap rubber profits (VT)
... Vietnam’s company to plant rubber trees in Laos (ND)
... Avic’s MA600 Makes International Debut in Laos (AIN Online)





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