China–Laos Military Ties: China says its new China–Laos Joint Support and Training Center and Friendship Aviation Academy at Ban Keun airport are now operational, aimed at training Lao air force pilots and “not directed against any third party,” as the move also follows a joint humanitarian medical rescue exercise. ASEAN Tourism Policy: Lao officials joined ASEAN tourism ministers in Manila to push intra-ASEAN travel, update the 2002 ASEAN Tourism Agreement for digital and sustainability goals, and develop an ASEAN tourism intelligence system with a regional data dashboard. Lao Party Communications: Vietnam and Laos’ party propaganda and training bodies agreed to deepen cooperation on communications, ideological work, and professional training, warning that AI and digital platforms are making the online information environment more volatile. National Assembly Calendar: Laos’ National Assembly will hold its 2nd ordinary session of the 10th legislature from Oct 5–21 in Vientiane, reviewing key legislation and development priorities. Labour Rights in Rural Sectors: The EU- and ILO-backed SOLAR II project (2026–2030) launched in Vientiane to strengthen social protection and labour rights for coffee, tea, and forestry workers, expanding safer workplaces and access to social security. Disaster Response: After Typhoon Maysak flooding in Luang Namtha, Plan International Laos is supporting government relief with food and WASH for thousands of affected people, with attention to girls’ and women’s heightened risks. Transport Update: Thai Airways adds a third daily flight to Vientiane from Dec 1, increasing competition on the Bangkok–Vientiane route.