Methanol poisoning case: Laos says it still can’t determine who is responsible for the deaths of six foreign tourists linked to methanol-tainted alcohol because no autopsies were conducted, leaving investigators without forensic proof to confirm the cause or criminal responsibility. Charges and backlash: Despite that, authorities have charged the Tiger Vodka distillery owner and hostel staff over the incident, but families and Australia’s government say the penalties are too light; Smartraveller has raised Laos’ travel threat level to “exercise a high degree of caution.” Cross-border drugs: A Lao national was arrested in Vietnam’s Nghe An province for smuggling 3,200 synthetic drug pills across the border, with authorities expanding the probe to find others involved. Regional diplomacy: ASEAN foreign ministers meet in Manila with regional security, West Asia tensions, and ASEAN food security—especially rice—on the agenda, alongside South China Sea and Gaza-related issues. Trade and cooperation: Vietnam and Laos are pushing bilateral trade targets of US$10 billion, with business talks held during VIETLAO EXPO 2026. Culture and soft power: Laos launched a new cultural association to preserve heritage and turn culture into a “cultural economy,” aiming for UNESCO-linked cooperation and wider international visibility. Border security: Bolikhamxay and Bueng Kan reaffirmed Laos–Thailand border cooperation to keep the frontier peaceful and orderly, including support for trade and tourism. Education support: Japan provided about US$2.3 million for Laos’ JDS scholarship programme, backing postgraduate training for 21 Lao officials. AI governance: Laos is among 29 founding members of a new World AI Cooperation Organization announced in Shanghai, as global leaders push for shared AI development and rules.