Flood Response: Laos issued fresh warnings as prolonged rains trigger flash floods and landslides, with Khammuan already seeing rivers rise and roads damaged, urging round-the-clock monitoring and evacuation readiness. Pandemic Preparedness: The government, with FAO and UNICEF, launched ALERT-LAO, a US$17.59m Pandemic Fund-backed push to strengthen early warning, lab capacity, and One Health systems across all 18 provinces. Cross-Border Health Drill: Laos and Thailand ran a joint public health emergency drill in Champasak to test surveillance and coordination for outbreaks, including avian influenza, anthrax, and Ebola. Digital Transport Upgrade: Laos is accelerating vehicle registration and transport management through a PPP digital system to modernize databases, improve road safety, and support fee and tax collection. Media Cooperation: Lao and Vietnamese officials exchanged experience on media leadership and management, focusing on information management and fighting online misinformation. Myanmar-ASEAN Diplomacy: Myanmar’s ex-junta chief Min Aung Hlaing arrived in Thailand for talks aimed at re-engagement with ASEAN, drawing criticism over “false legitimacy.” Regional Sports: AFC confirmed the draw for the U17 Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers in Malaysia on Aug. 27, with Laos among the host countries.