ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting: Regional security, West Asia tensions, Gaza spillover and ASEAN food security—especially rice supply planning—are set for Manila talks, with the ASEAN Power Grid also on the agenda, including electricity sharing from Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Vietnam–Laos Trade Push: A Vientiane business seminar on the sidelines of VIETLAO EXPO 2026 targets US$10 billion in bilateral trade, urging fewer intermediaries and better cross-border logistics for joint production and supply chains. Tourism & Food Safety Accountability: Laos says it still can’t determine cause or blame in the 2024 methanol-tainted alcohol deaths of six foreign tourists because families refused autopsies; methanol was found in Tiger Vodka, while charges reported so far are limited and draw criticism from Australia. Laos Cultural Industry Move: Laos approved a new Lao Cultural Values Promotion Association to preserve heritage and turn culture into a “cultural economy” and “creative economy,” linking artists and cultural entrepreneurs and seeking UNESCO-style support. Regional Business/Finance Links: Hong Kong’s SFST plans a gold market cooperation MOU visit to Vientiane, signaling continued cross-border financial ties relevant to Laos’ commodities and trade ecosystem.