Tourist deaths probe: Laos says it still can’t determine who is responsible for the six foreign deaths in Vang Vieng tied to methanol-tainted alcohol because no autopsies were conducted, leaving investigators without the forensic basis to prove cause of death or criminal responsibility; authorities say they found excessive methanol in vodka from the linked distillery, while charges against the distillery owner relate to harmful food and illegal business, drawing sharp criticism from Australia. Local safety update: Vientiane Province Police held a press conference on the 2024 Vang Vieng incident, naming the victims and outlining the investigation steps taken since the first report. Justice case: Denmark’s foreign ministry says a Laos court has brought charges against the distillery owner, with the case potentially remaining open for 15 years. Diplomacy & cooperation: Japan pledged about US$2.3m for Laos’ JDS scholarship programme, sending 21 officials to study in Japan. Culture & soft power: Laos launched a new cultural association to preserve heritage and grow “cultural/creative economy” links, while the Lao Women’s Union marked its 71st anniversary in Vientiane. Regional ties: Bolikhamxay and Bueng Kan reaffirmed Laos–Thailand border cooperation for peace and stability. International agenda: China’s WAICO push and Xi’s AI governance proposals drew praise, with Laos-China cooperation officials saying the speech supports inclusive AI development.