Country
Laos
Laos Opens Fast-Track Service for Chinese Travelers
By Sebastian Strangio
The announcement is a sign that China will play a central role in Southeast Asia's recovery from the economic downturn of COVID-19.
Could ASEAN Really Cut Laos and Cambodia Loose?
By Sebastian Strangio
The suggestion by a retired Singaporean diplomat has made waves among Southeast Asia watchers – but is it likely to happen?
Thai Protests Inspire Online Calls for Change Next Door in Laos
By Sebastian Strangio
Thailand's social media-driven demonstrations have resonated on the far side of the Mekong River.
Golden Triangle Casino Baron Bankrolls New Mekong River Port
By Sebastian Strangio
The international cargo port will supercharge the smuggling routes linking Zhao Wei's casino empire to rebel-held zones in eastern Myanmar.
Laos Stumbles Under Rising Chinese Debt Burden
By Sebastian Strangio
Its economy battered by COVID-19, the nation's sovereign reserves have fallen to less than $1 billion, putting it on the brink of default.
An Uncertain Future for Laos
By David Hutt
Laos’ quinquennial National Party Congress is coming up in 2021, but the prospects for meaningful change look slimmer and slimmer.
Who Will Save Luang Prabang?
By Tom Fawthrop
The World Heritage site in Laos is endangered by mega-projects and Mekong dams.
China, Southeast Asia Hold Emergency Meeting on Coronavirus Outbreak
By Associated Press
Foreign Minister Wang Yi will meet with his ASEAN counterparts in Laos amid alarm over the COVID-19 epidemic.
Are Laos’ Land-Linking Dreams a Risky Bet?
By Fabio Figiaconi
The Lao government aspires to gain centrality in the Greater Mekong Subregion via new infrastructure; but at what price?
Something Is Very Wrong on the Mekong River
By Tom Fawthrop
This year's drought is just a preview of more dire problems to come if government don't change course.
Scorched Earth Development in Northern Laos
By Scott Ezell
A look at dam, Belt and Road, and SEZ projects in “the battery of Southeast Asia.”
Can the Land of a Million Elephants Survive the Belt and Road?
By Kearrin Sims and Chrisantha Pinto
Chinese-funded projects in Laos could hasten the eradication of the elephant population.