Religion Curbs Abroad: A new Pew study says 58 countries had “high” or “very high” government restrictions on religion in 2023, with China and Iran among the worst—raising questions for U.S. foreign policy and travel. Vietnam–Laos Justice Push: Vietnam’s top leader To Lam met Lao Justice Minister Khamphan Phommathat, calling for tighter judicial cooperation and legal reforms. Nuclear Energy Deal: Russia and Laos signed an agreement on peaceful nuclear cooperation in Moscow, paving the way for a Russian-designed nuclear power plant feasibility study. Digital Currency Expansion: China’s e-CNY cross-border service CBETS added 26 financial institutions, including banks with branches in Laos, aiming to speed settlement and deepen regional connectivity. Border Tech & Infrastructure: Laos’ Technology Minister inspected border development in Bolikhamxay, including plans for the Vientiane–Hanoi expressway and upgrades around a key checkpoint. Flood Readiness: Laos’ National Water Resources Committee reviewed the 2026 rainy-season flood plan, stressing coordination, reservoir operations, and better data sharing. Local Oversight Training: A UK-style audit office setup debate highlights the need for councillor training so oversight bodies can properly question auditors. Cybercrime Spillover: Sri Lanka is emerging as a hub for telecom fraud and “pig-butchering” scams, with raids reportedly detaining foreigners including a Lao national. Fraud Ring in Vietnam: Vietnam arrested 19 Chinese suspects running an online scam ring in Lao Cai after relocating from Cambodia, targeting Chinese victims via fake lending-app roles. Precious Metals Refinery: Laos’ deputy PM visited the Lao-International Precious Metals Refinery, urging progress toward international LBMA standards to move up the value chain.