Lao Media Reform: President Thongloun Sisoulith urged Lao journalists to be more accurate, credible and innovative, warning against misinformation and calling for faster, verified reporting as the First National Media Conference sets a 2030 direction for the sector. National Media Leadership: The First National Media Conference opened in Vientiane, with senior Party and State leaders outlining priorities to strengthen Party leadership over media and improve public communication. Cross-Border Health & Payments: Vietnam’s NCB launched VietQR Global, letting tourists pay with QR codes across Vietnam using apps including Alipay/UnionPay and also supporting Laos-linked payments. Public Safety Reminder: In Bangkok, a deadly music bar fire rose to 30 deaths, with many victims found trapped in windowless bathrooms; Thai authorities ordered a sweeping safety survey of similar venues. UXO Risk in Laos: A report highlights how unexploded ordnance still forces families in southern Laos to evacuate daily ahead of clearance detonations. Tourism Push: Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam agreed on joint tour packages and an action plan for the “Three Countries, One Destination” campaign.