National Assembly & Economy: Laos opened the 10th National Assembly’s first extraordinary session in Vientiane on July 6, with lawmakers set to review the first-half socio-economic plan, state budget and monetary policy, plus rural development and poverty reduction, and new State Treasury and budget law amendments. Economic Performance: Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone told the session the economy grew 5% in the first half of 2026, led by services, industry and tourism recovery, with agriculture also expanding. Anti-Corruption Push: Party General Secretary Thongloun Sisoulith urged inspection agencies to strengthen monitoring and pursue cases to completion, stressing “no prohibited zones and no exceptions.” Cluster Munitions Prep: Laos chaired a Geneva preparatory meeting for the Third Review Conference of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, ahead of the Vientiane-hosted conference in September. Weather Watch: The Meteorology and Hydrology Department warned of widespread rain, thunderstorms and strong winds across Laos from July 6–12, urging vigilance for flash floods and damage. Youth & Agriculture: The Youth Union and the Agriculture and Environment Ministry signed an MOU to boost youth livelihoods through modern, market-oriented farming and entrepreneurship support. FAO & Chilli Exports: FAO and Laos launched work to unlock chilli export potential, targeting China and South Korea and aiming to raise farmers’ incomes through value-chain upgrades. Mekong Hydropower Talks: Laos and Myanmar agreed to elevate ties to a strategic partnership and conduct a Mekong hydropower feasibility study, with a proposed capacity up to 2,790MW. Regional Connectivity: Cambodia and Laos reaffirmed cooperation in science, technology and innovation and discussed using the Lao-China Railway and better cross-border links to cut logistics costs and boost trade and tourism.