Northern Flood Disruptions: Lao Airlines suspended Vientiane–Luang Namtha flights after rising waters hit Luang Namtha Airport, with Oudomxay also reporting heavy flooding; passengers can change dates or seek refunds. Power Sector Governance: Électricité du Laos (EDL) named Souksavart Sosouphanh as new CEO, following life sentences for four former EDL executives in an EDL hydropower corruption case. Energy & Industry Links: Phongsaly Fuhai Coal Mining exported 17,865 tons of coal this year so far, supplying cement makers and China, while officials urged environmental compliance and local development. Green Tech for Education: China-assisted Laos launched its first “Green Energy TO Zero-Carbon Library” in Luang Prabang with solar, storage and EV charging under the China–Laos Friendship Year. Cross-Border Trade Facilitation: Vietnam–Laos coordination inspected implementation of the 2007 Hanoi Agreement at Tay Trang and Pang Hok border gates to ease movement of people, vehicles and goods. Skills & Workforce: Lao-German Technical College fully waived tuition and fees for female students for 2026–2027, targeting more women in technical and industrial majors. Mining & Supply Chains: A report highlights Laos’s emerging rare earth potential in Xieng Khouang and Houaphanh, positioning the country in the rare-earth magnet supply chain. Regional Diplomacy: Laos President Thongloun Sisoulith is listed among leaders attending the SCO summit in Bishkek on Sept 1.