This page was updated: Saturday, September 01, 2007 01:34 PM -0400

July 31, 2007



Laos: Authorities prepare to deal with illegal workers (VT)
Lao authorities are focusing on improving the system through which Lao workers are sent to work legally in Thailand , to stem the flow of illegal workers arriving there. Officials said yesterday that the current system had failed to adequately address the problem of illegal workers, who were still able
Report from the Jungles of Laos: 45 Children, 17 over age of 10 Killed in June and July (FFC)
Report to the international communities and the United Nations: Since June 5, 2007 to July 22, 2007, LPDR government has launched his joined military forces to attack and kill us Hmong citizen of Laos in Mouang Xaysomboun
Opinion: Laos - Do I Hear an Eco? (Sustainable Travel)
Laos shines like an emerald in a sea of Asian ecological brown. Movie makers could well send location spotters to Lao if they were thinking elvish or faery. The karst landscapes cut fanciful horizon lines which can, depending on the light, be sinister or frivolous. The beauty of Lao’s natural landscape
Hmong: Woman, two teens arrested in prostitution sting (PP)
The 25-year-old St. Paul woman was known for hooking up johns with underage Hmong prostitutes. Blia Vang and two teenage prostitutes met undercover officers at the Exel Inn on June 27. Blia Vang negotiated the price for the girls-$450 each for the night, half paid up front, according to
Hmong: Refugees find hope in Mountain View garden (ADN)
For Bee Vang, the neat bundles of cilantro and stacks of red radishes under her tent at the Wednesday farmers' market mean more than just some cash at the end of the season. The vegetables, grown on a small plot in Mountain View, are a symbol of the way she and a handful of other refugees are
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Lao wildlife still threatened (VT)
... Xayaboury welcomes foreign visitors (VT)
... Laos and Vietnam to Hold Joint Trade Fair in Vientiane (VOA)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




July 30, 2007



Laos: Good weather marks beginning of Lent (VientianeTimes)
Crowds of temple-goers were blessed with moderate weather for the ritual of alms-giving yesterday morning, after much-needed heavy rainfalls the evening before. Temples throughout the country were crowded from early yesterday morning, as worshippers came to offer alms and make merit to
Laotian tourism at the crossroads (Bangkok Post)
Located right at the crossroads of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), the rapidly growing tourism industry of landlocked Laos is at the same juncture at which the Thai tourism industry found itself in the 1980s -- the face-off between ''quantity'' vs ''quality'' of visitor arrivals and boosting its ability to
Laos native migrates to United States and fuels his love for tennis (Greeley Tribune)
Nobody knows that better than Greeley's Jeff Lejeune, his opponent Sunday at the Greeley Tennis Championships. The 33-year-old saw Manichanh run down nearly every ball and make seemingly every shot in his 6-0, 6-1 victory
Besides buying from Laos, Egat may buy additional power from IPPs (Bangkok Post)
Egat is prepared to buy 3,200 megawatts of electricity from IPP plants during the period, officials say. ''If the IPPs' proposals are acceptable, electricity production will not be confined to the amount originally planned since power
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... EC helps to alleviate poverty in Laos (VT)
... Laos: Spectators impressed by country's biggest baci (VT)
... Hmong Summer Festival a chance to socialize, shop and play (SP)
... Jackson Magnet continues Hmong bilingual program (TCP)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA





July 29, 2007



Tai Village celebrates a new home in U.S. (DMR)
For Siang Bachti and the thousands of displaced Tai Dam people living in Iowa, a 55-year struggle to regain their heritage and a place they could call home finally came full-circle Saturday morning. Looking out at rows of tents lined by vendors selling authentic Tai food, Bachti remembered 1975 and
From Laos to Greeley, Manichanh found love of tennis (GT)
Meng Manichanh’s first exposure to tennis came as a child in Laos where he used to get paid a quarter a ball to track down errant shots as a ball boy for the wealthy players at the local country club. However, it wasn't until Manichanh left the the small communist state in southeast Asia and settled in
Hmong: An unexpected leader (Fresno Bee)
The old men who led the Hmong into war and out of the jungle were behind bars. Even Gen. Vang Pao himself, patriarch of the Hmong, had been arrested by the American government for allegedly plotting to overthrow the communist government of Laos. With that, the flashbacks began.
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... SE Asia drafts first charter, without rights body (Reuters)




July 28, 2007



Laos Embassy supports Asean Corner (Brunei Direct)
The Laos Embassy in Brunei has lent traditional musical instruments, posters and pamphlets to support primary schools in setting up Asean booths. Laos Embassy Second Secretary Sisouphanh Phouthavong recently presented materials for the Laos booth to Cikgu Alikhan Tengah, Sungai Liang Primary
Quang Tri, Lao, Thai Provinces Boost Tourism (Bernama)
Central Quang Tri province, the Savannakhet province of Laos & Mucdahan province of Thailand have agreed to work on tourism development and tap the Caravan tours to the three provinces, the Vietnam news agency reports. A memorandum of understanding was signed by the three provinces' leaders at
KBTV broadcasts National Lao-Hmong Recognition Day (PRL)
KBTV will be airing the National Lao-Hmong Recognition Day this Sunday, July 29 at 7 p.m. during the Hmong Media program block. The annual commemoration of the National Lao-Hmong Recognition Day was celebrated last Sunday, July 22 at the International World Peace Rose Garden at
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Thailand calls for efforts to control smog in Mekong region (XinhuaNet)
... Ashamed to be an ASEAN (Asian Tribune)
... ASEAN should focus on prosperity (New Straits Times)
... ASEAN divided on rights commission, sanctions (Gulf-Times)
... Southeast Asian countries struggle to end differences on human rights




July 27, 2007



Movie: Survivor in Laos (Times-Picayune)
Dieter Dengler's plan was simple: run. A captured American pilot during the Vietnam War, Dengler was determined to break for the fences of the Laotian camp in which he was imprisoned and run like hell. But war has a way of making simple plans get very complex very quickly. The scenario alone --
Politically Incorrect Exit for the UK Ambassador to Thailand and Laos (Global Politician)
The British Ambassador to Thailand & Laos, David Fall, ended his career as a diplomat by giving a wildly hilarious, shockingly blunt, comedy performance of taboo jokes about Scotsmen using condoms, trigger-happy Americans,
PM links Laos to the world (VientianeTimes)
PM Bouasone Bouphavanh declared his support for ecotourism yesterday as a rapidly growing sector of tourism industry in the region & the world. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Lao Ecotourism Forum at Vientiane's Don Chan Palace Hotel yesterday, Mr Bouasone said the forum
Wiley's talk with Hmong 'a good step' (Capital Times)
As dozens of Hmong met with University of Wisconsin-Madison Chancellor John Wiley Thursday night, one of them asked for a public apology for remarks by law professor Leonard Kaplan that offended some students early this year. Others said Kaplan should be fired. "This is a good step that you
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Lao-Viet cooperation to add more border markers (VT)
... City temple to revive old tradition for second time (VT)
... Southeast Asia's Forgotten Tier: Burma, Cambodia and Laos (HF)
... Vietnam-Laos co-operation sub-committees meet (ND)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA





July 26, 2007



Film Reviews: Jungle fever [in Laos] (Las Vegas CityLife)
IN HIS 1997 MADE-FOR-TV DOCUMENTARY, Little Dieter Needs to Fly, Werner Herzog told the extraordinary story of Dieter Dengler, a German-born U.S. Navy pilot who was shot down over Laos in 1966 while serving in the Vietnam War. When he was captured by the Pathet Lao, Dengler endured
Laos' forgotten front (Bangkok Post)
This is what travel is all about, I muse, feet up on the balcony rail as I view a misty shroud hanging over Phonsavan town, covering even the distant forested mountains that surround the Plain of Jars in Laos. I sink lower into the deck chair. I could slumber here wrapped in temperatures that hover
IT officials offer free Lao software (VientianeTimes)
Local people will have free access to a number of Lao-language email and desktop computer programmes, thanks to the development of Open Source Software in Laos , according to an ICT consultant. The STD of STEA, in collaboration with the UNDP, has now completed the implementation of this
Vietnam Funds Railway Feasibility Study for Laos (VOA)
Vietnam has agreed to assist Laos in the feasibility study for a railway project linking the city of Vinh, in central Vietnam, to Laos capital Vientiane via Thakhek in central Laos. The feasibility study is expected to take 10 months & funded by a 3-billion Dong grant from Vietnam. The Vinh-Thakhek-Vientiane
Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam to issue ‘responsible’ tourism guide (Travel Video)
Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam are to publish a guide book on responsible tourism. This effort is perhaps a better attempt to jointly promote tourism among the three countries since efforts to do so through the ASEAN have
Laos Plot Suspects Receive "Absolute Trust" (News10)
The eleven men charged in an alleged conspiracy to overthrow the communist government of Laos must follow a rigid code of conduct or their family members could lose their homes. "It is absolute trust," said defense team member Mark Reichel. Nine relatives of Reichel's client, Lo Cha Thao
Tuning in to the sound of Hmong tradition (OCL)
Tony Yang has been in the United States for 20 years, but one morning last week he was transported back to his native Laos. The sun was just up and his grandparents were out feeding the chickens, the signal for the rest of the family to get out and begin a long day of working in the garden. Such is the
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Lack of rainfall to impact farmers in Laos (VT)
... Lao Govt to implement investment one stop service (VT)
... True Authentic of Lao Cooking School, Luang Prabang, Laos (VOA)
... Dragonboat Festival roars into Denver - 
    Last year Lao Buddhist Temple of Colorado won the race
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




July 25, 2007



Huay Nam Khao Hmongs say they will not return to Laos (VOA)
The Hmong refugees in Ban Houay Nam Khao say Thai authorities cannot repatriate them to Laos because they not only are descendants of former CIA workers, but they have also fought along side Thai troops against Laos in the Rom Kao conflict. Most of the 7,700 Hmongs who have been moved from
Main Vientiane road 70 percent complete (VientianeTimes)
Phase Two of the asphalting of the Vientiane Road No 1 Project, from the Sikhai fork to Chinaimo, is about 70 percent completed & will be finished this November, says the Project Coordinator, Mr Dedsongkham Thammavong. He said yesterday that Phase Two has involved laying asphalt on the road and
Tai Dam invite Iowans to learn about culture (DMR)
For the Tai Dam, it is customary to celebrate the products of their work, joining together in song and dance before and after a harvest. Hundreds of people will come together Saturday to commemorate a milestone as they break ground for the Tai Village Administration Center during the first-ever
Status conference delayed in Laos plot case (SacBee)
The status conference scheduled Wednesday in he case charging 11 men with plotting the violent overthrow of communist Laos has been postponed to Oct. 24. Defense lawyers and prosecutors agreed to the postponement to give the defense team time to review amassive amount of material turned over
Catlani: In defense of a 'splendid old soldier' - Vang Pao (WSJ)
On June 4, officers from a muscular mix of U.S., California, and local Sacramento law enforcement agencies arrested former Royal Lao Army Maj. Gen. Vang Pao. The esteemed Hmong freedom fighter, along with eight others, was charged with several federal felonies, which included plotting to
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Vientiane needs new exam marking system (VT)
... Wet-season vegetables ‘may contain chemicals' (VT)
... Lao President welcomes Vietnamese veterans (TN)
... Viet, Laos & Thai products displayed at exhibition-cum-fair in Vietnam
... Viet football under-18 lose 2-0 in friendly in Laos (ND)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




July 24, 2007



Lao-Americans: Accountant leaves corporate world to open Vienna spa (Times Community)
This May marked one year since Lisa Tep and April Soulamany signed the lease for the space they would transform into Sesen Spa in Vienna. For these two powerhouse moms and accountants, the spa is much more than
Thailand to Return Hmongs to Laos in Two Months (VOA)
Thailand's Supreme Commander says the Hmong refugees currently living in Ban Huay Nam Khao will be sent back to Laos because no third countries have offered to take them. Thai authorities are presently gathering personal records of the 7,700 Hmongs at Ban Huay Nam Khao to submit to Lao
Laos: Camera-shy deer photographed for 1st time (ET, VOA)
A little-known species of Laotian deer called a large-antlered muntjac has been photographed for the first time in the wild. The Wildlife Conservation Society said the deer, previously known only from specimens collected by hunters and a few fleeting glimpses by biologists, stands approximately 25-30
Phongsavanh Bank to install ATMs (VientianeTimes)
Phongsavanh Bank plans to begin installing automatic teller machines throughout the country to provide more services to its customers by next month, after signing an ATM purchase contract with a Thai company. The bank signed a contract in Bangkok last week with the Diebold and Postilion
Laos plans to update national dictionary (AP/Yahoo!)
The Lao government plans to set up a Council of Lao Linguistics to approve words for a new official edition of the national Lao dictionary, local media reported Tuesday. Lao people create new words all the time, from television, newspapers, foreign films and music, and integrate them into their daily
Vietnam-Laos geological co-op sees fruitful results (BVOM)
Joint projects were also carried out to explore for minerals deposits in Vientiane, coal in northern and central Laos, iron in Phu Nhouan, Xiangkhoang province, gypsum and salt in Dong Hene, Savannakhet province, kalinite and manganese salt in Thangone, Vientiane, and bauxite in
CPF expands its business to Laos (World Poultry)
Dr Sinlavong Khoutphaythoune, Mayor of Vientiane City hosts the grand opening of C.P.Laos Co’s feedmill, located at Vientiane. Wiboon Khusakul, Thai Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Vientiane, Lao PDR, and Adirek Sripratak, president and CEO of Charoen Pokphand Foods
Lao-Hmong: He learned how to take 'em at Hold'Em (LA Times)
When Temecula social worker Jerry Yang was a child, his father forbade him to gamble, prohibiting even checkers and dice. After Yang, 39, married, his wife disapproved of his burgeoning poker habit. But he was defiant, and it paid off — big time. Yang won the Texas Hold'Em title and $8.25 million last
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Laos to update dictionary (VientianeTimes)
... New agency created for better water, environment management (VT)
... Laos' Public Security Minister holds talks with S'pore counterpart
... Gen. Pao and others will not return to court until October (ABC)
... Viet mass mobilisation delegation visits Laos (VNN)
... Communist Review awarded Issala Order of Laos (ND)
... Group of Hmong students migrating to Hopkins schools (Star Tribune)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA





July 23, 2007



Preparations to Lao Ecotourism Forum under high steam (TV)
In the context of the high-powered Lao Ecotourism Forum on July 26-29, 2007, the offices of the Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA) in Vientiane are even occupied on a Sunday. Mr. Steven Schipani, Team Leader of the Community-Based Tourism Component of the Mekong Tourism
Laos tries to stabilise exchange rates (ANN or Nation)
The Bank of the Lao PDR, the central bank of Laos, is trying to stabilise the exchange rate in the country as much as possible, hoping for a rate fluctuation this year of no more than 5%. The bank governor, Phouphet Khamphounvong, said: “The central bank will control the exchange rates in
Laos: NCDM prepares for disasters (VientianeTimes)
The National Committee for Disaster Management has set aside one billion kip and 1,000 tonnes of rice to assist families of victims affected by natural disasters this year. The Head of the committee, Mr Khamphao Hompanya, said on Friday it will use the money from KR1, a fund assisted by
Rohrabacher defends suspect in Laos plot (Press Telegram)
Rep. Dana Rohrabacher has made no secret of his differences with the Bush administration. But the Orange County Republican, who represents the Palos Verdes Peninsula and slices of San Pedro and Long Beach, has fought the president longest and hardest on the issue of immigration. Rohrabacher was
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... LWU breaks new ground in non-smoking (VT)
... Govt to facilitate Vietnamese construction investment (VT)
... Vietnam rushing forward 100,000 ha rubber plantations in Laos (MWI)
... Thailand’s Baht Soars Higher as Exporters Suffer (Irrawaddy)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




July 22, 2007



All Lao-Hmong must go (Bangkok Post)
The 7,700 Hmong refugees currently living in a make-shift camp in Phetchabun will be deported to Laos as no countries have come forward to offer them resettlement. Supreme Commander Boonsrang Niumpradit said on Saturday the Hmong living at the Ban Huay Nam Khao camp in Khao Kho
Trekking in cool, unspoilt Northern Laos (Brunei Times)
THE hillside was so steep that I had to pull myself up using any available tree branch and roots. The terrain underfoot was really slippery as the carpet of dry bamboo leaves provided no grip for my shoes. It was actually more difficult than walking on mud as the dry leaves tended to slip downhill whilst
Luang Prabang: The ethnic experience (Nation)
The ethnic experience The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre has opened its doors in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. A private museum, the Centre features exhibits of ethnic artefacts, a museum shop and the Patio Cafe. The official opening, held on July 5, was attended by Kongchanh Khammavong,
'Humble' Hmong Festival will serve up food, games (SP)
The annual Sheboygan Hmong Summer Festival on Saturday & Sunday, July 28 and 29 in Kiwanis Park will offer something for everybody. The event is sponsored by the Hmong Mutual Assistance Association and is a fundraiser for the community organization. The entrance fee is $2. The festival will run




July 21, 2007



Lao-Hmong: Poker Face, Asian Race (TMM)
When Jerry Yang, a 39-year-old California psychologist, won the $8.25 million pot in Las Vegas on July 18, he’d only been playing for two years. Quick and studious? Five foot, three inches tall? Father of six? What could he possibly be but Asian? Yang, a Hmong immigrant from Laos, bested the last
Lao-Hmong: Temecula poker champion brings new style to table (San Diego/Union Tribune)
Enter Jerry Yang, a quiet, low-key social worker from just up the road in Temecula... Heck, he even plans to give 10% of his $8.25 million purse to charity & talked about doing missionary work. “The feeling is just unbelievable
Vang Pao: Shame on us (NWV)
The arrest and persecution of Gen. Vang Pao, for plotting the overthrow of communists in Laos is a national disgrace...and by the by, the personification of hypocrisy, duplicity and brain flatulence. In the wake of the American withdrawal from Vietnam the politics was openly considered a geopolitical
Vinacafe to expand coffee cultivation in Laos (TNN)
Coffee will be grown on 1000 hectares in the Lao province of Champassak by the Vietnam-Laos Coffee Joint Stock Company, a subsidiary of Vinacafe, the Vietnam National Coffee Corporation. Under an agreement reached earlier this week by Vinacafe, the Dak Uy Coffee Company of Kon Tum




July 20, 2007



Mad dogs and bowling in Luang Prabang (AAP/Stuff)
The Australian, Irish and Welsh backpackers I met at the Hive bar in Luang Prabang invited me 10 pin bowling. It's not the sort of thing you'd expect to do in a UNESCO-protected town high up in the mountains of northern Laos. But not surprisingly this town has few western night clubs or late night bars.
Poultry farming banned in four districts of Laos capital (VOA)
The banned districts include Chanthabouly, Xaysettha, Sikhottabong and Sysattanak, which had all been affected by bird flu outbreaks. Authorities say the ban is part of a measure to prevent further spreading of the deadly H5N1 Avian flu virus. Laos has been yearly affected by bird flu since the first
Lao-Americans: Thai-ing cultures together (Courier News)
The kind of ambiance usually expected at a trendy Chicago eatery can be found right in downtown Elgin at Akina's Thai Restaurant. The restaurant at 23 S. Grove Ave. gives diners cosmopolitan options for lunch and dinner, with a large and varied menu to satisfy almost any taste. Attach one to 10 stars to
Laos: Farmers using banned pesticides to kill snails (VT)
Farmers in Vientiane are currently using pesticides to kill snails in their rice fields, but this is worrying agriculture officials who say the pesticides can also kill fish and damage the soil. Many farmers are using the chemicals to reduce the number of snails that damage rice plants. Killing snails with
Young Hmong Americans Confront a Dark History (IPS)
The Hmong American community was catapulted into the national spotlight when, on Jun. 4, 11 California residents were arrested for plotting to overthrow the government of Laos. Among them was 77-year-old Vang Pao, who led a CIA-backed "secret army" of his tribesmen in Laos to aid U.S.
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Best Vientiane students awarded (VT)
... Vietnam's delegation visits the north (VT)
... Lao & Burmese illegal immigrants a problem for Thailand (BP)
... Magistrate orders ringleaders in alleged Laos plot released (WN)
... The Mekong's quiet charm (Electric Newspaper)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




July 19, 2007



U.S. Envoy Looks Forward to Meeting Lao-Americans (VOA)
Ravic R. Huso, the new U.S. ambassador to Laos, discussed US-Laos relations & cooperation in an exclusive interview with VOA. The ambassador says Laos and the U.S. have differences but overall bilateral relations are good: "We do have differences. We have differences over human rights.
Vietnam to Harvest Coffee in Laos (AP/Yahoo or VE)
Vietnam's coffee output in 2011 may be boosted by up to 12,000 metric tons under a joint venture that allows the country to grow coffee on up to 6,000 hectares of land in southern Laos. The Vietnam-Laos Coffee Joint Stock Co. was given the green light earlier this week to grow 1,000 hectares of coffee
Pain medicine banned in Laos (Nation)
The Food and Drug Department of the Ministry of Public Health issued a notice Tuesday, to inform the public throughout the country to stop selling and taking medicines containing nimesulide, after six patients required liver transplants following treatment with this medicine in Eire.
Viet delegation visits mine project, tourism sites (VT)
Vietnamese leaders, who paid an official visit to Laos on Monday, visited Khammuan province and some tourism sites in Vientiane yesterday. The delegation was divided into two groups. The first group... visited a salt mining project in Nonglom village, Nongbok district of Khammuan province.
Young farmer shares new vision for Hmong farming (MPR)
This farming story starts at the Hennepin County Medical Center. Mhonpaj Lee works as an interpreter. With long black hair and glasses, tidy in her business clothes, she jokes that she looks like a stereotypical East Asian straight-A student. But, then, you get her talking about what she just learned
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Vietnam celebrates treaty of friendship with Laos (VT)
... New agency to improve water and environmental management (VT)
... Laos Not Completely Opium-Free as Previously Announced (VOA)
... Vietnam-Laos sports week to be held in Vientiane (VNN)
... Rugby: Laos lost all three matches (Brunei Times)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




July 18, 2007



Chinese Assistance to Laos Steadily Increases (VOA)
Chinese assistance to Laos has steadily increased in the past ten years, with grants totalling over 2.3 billion yuans and over 350 million dollars in long-term loans. Chinese investment has also steadily expanded. Since 1990, China has undertaken some 236 investment projects in its southern neighbor,
Oxiana's 2nd Quarter Zinc, Copper Output Rises (Bloomberg)
Oxiana Ltd., the fastest-growing of Australia's 10-largest mining companies, said second-quarter copper and zinc output rose as mining rates increased at its Australian mine and it processed more ore at Sepon in Laos. Zinc production at the Golden Grove mine in Western Australia rose 17 percent to
Alloy Resources Reports on Rock Chip Samples from Laos Project (Yahoo!)
Alloy Resources reports on the Rock Chip samples from the Laos Project. Highlights include the results from Nam Thong prospect rock chip samples that show several areas are anomalous in copper, lead, zinc, silver and gold
Vietnamese businesses top Laos investment list (ND)
Laos is currently home to 106 Vietnamese business backed projects, worth more than US $516 million. The figure shows that Laos is topping the overseas investment list of Vietnamese businesses. The information was revealed at a conference held in Ho Chi Minh City on July 17 that called for
Laos, Vietnam continue to harvest fruitful cooperation (VT)
Lao and Vietnamese leaders yesterday reaffirmed their intention to raise their comprehensive cooperation and special solidarity to a higher level in the future. The two leaders were speaking at gathering of more than 1,000 people at the National Culture Hall in Vientiane to celebrate the Treaty of Friendship
Hmong: Psychologist Wins World Series of Poker (AP/Forbes)
Jerry Yang, a 39-year-old psychologist who uses his professional training in his card-playing arsenal, won the top prize Wednesday of $8.25 million at the World Series of Poker. Yang vaulted quickly from eighth to the chip lead soon after play began Tuesday afternoon. He knocked out seven of the eight
Hmong supporters criticize indictments (AP/LI)
Supporters of the Hmong community said Tuesday that indictments against Hmong leaders in California in an alleged coup conspiracy were backfiring against Laotian refugees overseas. The government of Thailand forcibly repatriated about 160 Hmong refugees to Laos shortly after several Hmong
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Oxiana happy to scoop up Rio Tinto scraps (Age or News)
... World Series of Poker final table down to two players (HD News)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




July 17, 2007



Laos Central Bank Intervenes in Thai Baht's Appreciation Against the Kip (VOA)
The national bank of the Lao PDR last week injected more Thai currency into the economy in response to the current appreciation of the Thai Baht against the Lao currency, which has created hardship for most Lao consumers as
Laos, Hmong Crisis: US Congressional Laos Policy Briefing Will Discuss Emergency in Thailand, Laos (PRLog)
A U.S. Congressional Laos policy briefing & discussion on the current crisis in Laos and Thailand facing Hmong and Laotian refugees & asylum seekers will be held on Tuesday, July 17, 2007 from 11:30 P.M.-2:00 P.M. in the U.S.
Weather experts warn of possible floods (VientianeTimes)
Weather forecasters say extensive floods in Laos are highly possible in the next few months and have urged the sector concerned to prepare for a natural disaster. The Head of the Weather Forecast Division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ms Souvany Phonevilay, said yesterday that her
'Hunted Like Animals' Screened in Sacramento; Shows Ongoing Genocide in Laos: Filmmaker Rebecca Sommer (HNN)
The Hmong community in California has scheduled a screening of "Hunted Like Animals" Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at 4148 Madison Ave., Sacramento, CA. “We want the American people to know why we are so outraged and
Vietnam, Laos leaders vow to boost ties (TNN)
Vietnam’s Communist Party, parliament, and government pledged Monday to boost ties with Laos during meetings with a visiting senior Lao leader. Communist Party of Vietnam General Secretary Nong Duc Manh, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, and National Assembly speaker Nguyen Phu
Hmong refugees in Thailand hurt by Sacramento indictments, supporters allege (AP/KSBY)
Supporters of the Hmong community told a congressional briefing today that indictments of Hmong leaders in California in an alleged coup plot are backfiring against Hmong refugees overseas. Hmong general Vang Pao and
Hmong: Another Wis. College Student Missing (TMJ4 or FN)
A University of Wisconsin-Green Bay student leader has disappeared after a night out with friends. Twenty-one-year-old Mahalia Xiong was reported missing after she didn't return from a night of bowling and drinking at an Ashwaubenon bowling alley. Xiong's family said she left her car at the alley
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Laos to build $50 million road to Viet Nam; could take until 2013 (VNA)
... Iran, Laos to study expansion of mutual cooperation (IRNA)
... Laos, Vietnam enhance relations through cultural week (VT)
... Four urban districts prohibited to breeding poultry (VT)
... VN, Laos celebrate 45 years of diplomacy (VNN)
... Laos seeks Vietnam investment for major projects (TNN)
... Feel the love at Laos exhibition in Vietnam (VNB)
... Exhibition feature Vietnam-Laos friendship opens in Hanoi (ND)
... Vietnam attaches importance to developing ties with Laos: Party leader
... Brunei Fight Back To Beat Laos (Brunei Direct)




July 16, 2007



Ethnology museum opens in Luang Prabang (Nation)
The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre has opened its doors in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. A private museum, the Centre features exhibits of ethnic artefacts, a museum shop and the Patio Cafe. The official opening, held on July 5, was attended by Kongchanh Khammavong, chairman of the Lao
Laos releases eight Thais (Earth Times or Bangkok Post)
Laos on Monday released seven Thai army rangers and a village headman who crossed into Lao territory last week on "anti-narcotic activities." "Everything went smoothly," said Lao Foreign Ministry spokesman Yong Chanhthalousy, who attended the handover ceremony at Muang Ngern, in
Researchers find potential income along Road No 9 (VT)
Savannakhet province has not yet taken full advantage of Road No 9 to develop the country, senior officials from the Institutes for Cultural Research of Laos and Vietnam said resently. Although the living and health conditions of people in this area have progressed gradually, the Lao and Vietnamese
Hmong leader lightning rod for rancor (Wisc SJ)
State Journal staff Last month a federal grand jury indicted 10 members of California's Hmong community, including former general Vang Pao, on charges they plotted to violently overthrow the communist government of Laos. The indictment came the same day federal agents arrested an 11th
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... UNDP helps Laos to manage aid (VT)
... PM releases fish for Wildlife Conservation Day (VT)
... Laos hosts Vietnamese officials for anniversary of diplomatic ties (VN)
... High-level delegation leaves for celebrations in Laos (ND)
... Rugby: Brunei Fight Back To Beat Laos (BD)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA





July 15, 2007



Lao-Americans: Asian gangs among the bloodiest (TAR)
Most Asian gang members are children or grandchildren of those who fled Laos after the end of the Vietnam war and eventually made their way to the United States, officials say. They speak English and are plugged into American culture. But their parents' unfamiliarity with that culture — and
Laos Deputy PM visits Jame Mosque, The Royal Regalia (BD)
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos, Dr Thongloun Sisoulith, visited Jame 'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque yesterday during his stay in the Sultanate. Upon his arrival, Dr Thongloun Sisoulith was received by Ustaz Hj Abd Aziz bin Hj Akop, Senior Religious Officer of Jame
Home grown From Laotian jungles to America's promise, Hmong adapt, survive (Michican Live/FJ)
Thirty years ago, the Xiong family grew just enough food to survive, hiding from the Pathet Lao Communists in the mountains of Laos after the Vietnam War. That's a long way from the outdoor pavilion at the Flint Farmers' Market
Laos-U.S.: New movie dishonors POWs, family members say (Navy Times)
On Feb. 1, 1966, Dengler was on his very first combat mission in Vietnam, over the Laotian border, when his A-1 Skyraider was hit by anti-aircraft fire & he crash-landed in Laos. He was taken captive by Communist Pathet Lao
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Book into the best of Indo-China (News)




July 14, 2007



Laos admits holding Thais (Nation)
Laos admitted yesterday that it had detained seven Thai Rangers and a village head, saying they had illegally entered its territory. Published on July 14, 2007 The Lao Foreign Ministry told AFP that the eight Thai nationals had been arrested three days previously in Xayabouly province and that
Laos Deputy PM Briefed On BEDB (Brunei Direct)
The Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) yesterday briefed the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos, Mr Thongloun Sisoulith on the BEDB's projects focusing on the Sungai Liang Industrial Park (SPARK), Pulau Muara Besar and the I-Centre. The briefing was also
Vietnam shares experiences on WTO with Laos (ND)
A Vietnamese delegation led by Vu Khoan, Special Envoy of the Prime Minister, is visiting Laos to exchange experiences with Lao Party and Govt  leaders on the process to join the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The visit takes place in the context that Laos is pursuing its plan to enter the world’s




July 13, 2007



9 Laos Overthrow Defendants Granted Bail (AP/CBS)
A federal magistrate has released another defendant in the alleged plot to overthrow the communist government of Laos. That makes nine of the eleven accused men who are set to be released from custody once they present varying bail amounts. Today, US Magistrate Dale Drodz allowed the release
US judge orders release of Hmong ringleaders in alleged Laos overthrow plot (AP/PR-Inside or AP/CCT)
A U.S. magistrate ordered the alleged ringleader of a plot to overthrow the communist government of Laos released on bail, allowing Hmong leader Gen. Vang Pao to return home under strict conditions. U.S. Magistrate Dale Drozd
Eight Thai officials encroach Laos territory: Laos FM (Nation)
Laos admitted on Friday that it has detained seven Thai rangers and a village head, saying they illegally entered its soil. Laos said on Thursday that it did not know whereabouts of the eight Thais after news broke out in Thailand that they were detained. Lao Foreign Ministry's spokesman Yong Chanthalangsy
Lao-Thai Border Eight People Held: Army negotiates for release of captive rangers, headmen (Bangkok Post)
The Third Army Region is negotiating for the release of eight rangers and village headmen held captive by Lao soldiers since Tuesday, Council for National Security (CNS) chief Sonthi Boonyaratkalin said yesterday. 
Laos: The central bank releases strong Thai baht (VT)
The Bank of the Lao PDR yesterday started releasing Thai baht banknotes to protect against black-market gains & investor panic after the baht continued to strengthen against the Lao kip. The bank governor, Mr Phouphet Khamphounvong, said yesterday the central bank also released 30 million
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Laos to release captive Thai Army Rangers, village headman (PD)
... Lao, Vietnamese ministries to hold cultural weeks (VT)
... Culture festival to celebrate Viet Nam-Laos ties (VN)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




July 12, 2007



We don't know where they are: Laos says (Nation)
Lao authorities in the northwestern province of Xayabouly say they have no idea of the whereabouts of eight Thais who have been reported missing near the Lao border, a Thai district chief said Thursday. "My counterpart in Xianghon district replied to our inquiry that he was not aware of the group of
Laos' detention of Thai officials is misunderstanding: Army Chief Supreme (Nation)
Com. Gen Boonsang Niempradit described as "possible misunderstanding" that Laos detained eight Thai officials in the northwestern province of Xayabouly. "Maybe Laos suspected our officials were some how involved
Koreans look at Lao investments (Vientiane Times)
Investors from four big companies from the Republic of Korea are interested in making investments in Laos , after a recent visit to Laos . The President of the Goodmorning Shinhan Securities Company, Mr Lee Dong Girl, led the delegation which included representatives of the Military Mutual Aid
Vietnam tops list of foreign investors in Laos (VE)
Laos is now one of the most attractive destinations for Vietnamese investors with 106 investment projects worth more than 516 million USD. The fund takes Viet Nam’s total investment in 33 countries and territories worldwide to over 1 billion USD by May this year. According to Lao Economic and Commercial
Defense: Feds Behind Plot To Overthrow Laos Gov't (CBS)
A dramatic day in court as the men accused of plotting to overthrow the government of Laos appeared for a bail hearing. As their attorney filed a brief claiming the CIA was actually in on the alleged plot, two of the defendants had to be rushed to the hospital. Two of 11 men accused of plotting to
Two alleged Laos plotters hospitalized as defense lawyers seek bail (Fresno Bee)
Two of the 11 men accused of plotting to overthrow the communist Govt of Laos were hospitalized Thursday as their attorneys argued that they should be freed while they await trial. Seng Vue, 68, of Fresno, fainted in the federal
Hmong rally for general's release (AsiaXpress)
Nearly 200 Hmong Americans rallied peacefully in support of their incarcerated hero, former General Vang Pao, June 11 at the Colorado State Capitol. “We humbly ask for your consideration in the release of General Vang Pao and the other men who have been arrested with him,” said activist
Hmong thought that CIA backed plan to extract them from Laos (Star Tribune)
Hmong leaders in the United States believed the CIA was backing a plan to extract Hmong villagers from the Laos jungle, according to papers filed late Wednesday in Sacramento federal court. The papers, filed by defense
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Laos: Officials crack down on imitation products (VT)
... Laos: Historians look for in-depth evidence (VT)
... Laos: Third Country Can Take Huay Nam Khao Hmongs (VOA)
... Laos Plot Hearing Draws Huge Rally (News 10)
... Demonstrators call imprisoned Laos general a hero (DFP)
... Thousands demonstrate outside Laos-plot hearing (FB)
... Worms in Asian fish tied to liver cancer (AP/BG)
... Obituary: Khamsy Sysenkham (Daily News Journal)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




July 11, 2007



Eight Thai officials nabbed in Laos (Nation)
Laos detained seven Thai rangers and a village head who crossed the border into the northwestern province of Xayabouly during a patrol on Tuesday night, Nan Governor Somphong Anuyuthaphong said Wednesday. The provincial authorities have already contacted counterparts in Laos to locate
Laos arrests 'bomb plotters' (Nation)
Communist Laos arrested five Hmong dissidents - including a Thai national - over an alleged plot to bomb at least seven places in the northwestern province of Bokeo, a Thai security source said. The five were nabbed on Saturday in the northern province but were now detained in the capital,
Stronger baht fuels up prices in Laos (ANN)
The prices of consumer products imported from Thailand have risen following appreciation of the Thai currency. Currently, grocers are reducing their orders from Thailand because traders are finding the prices too high. “In the last two days I have increased prices for all kinds of goods, because
China mulls 80-million-dollar auto plant in Laos (Earth Times)
A Chinese automobile maker is looking to land-locked Laos for a $80 million assembly plant to produce vehicles for the local market and exports, Radio Vientiane reported Wednesday. Chang Jung Xin, chairman of the Futam Group from China's Guangdong province met with Lao PM Bouasone
Laos Faces Electricity Shortage Because of Exports (VOA)
Laos’ emphasis on exporting most of the electricity produced by its many hydro-power dams has created an energy shortage for domestic consumption, forcing it to buy back electricity from its neighbors. Lao officials say, under the agreements with investors, only about 5% to 10% of
Laos: Sunlabob wins Ashden Award (VientianeTimes)
Sunlabob Renewable Energy Company of Laos has been awarded the prestigious “Ashden Award for sustainable energy”, the so-called ‘Green Oscar'. The managing director of Sunlabob Rural Energy Ltd, Mr Andy Schroeter, was invited to London last week and has been personally
Hmong Rally in Downtown Fresno (CBS)
Hundreds from the Hmong community rallied in support of General Vang Pao and ten other men charged with conspiracy to overthrow the Laotian Govt on Wednesday July 11th. In addition to the Fresno event, additional rallies have occurred in cities all over California. On Thursday, defense lawyers will
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... China may build Laos car factory (DPA/BP)
... Laos-Vietnam railway to be built (VNS)
... Laos: Registration of shops will help preserve artefacts (VT)
... Laos: Farmers told to increase wet-season rice (VT)
... Training in Laos to engage UN development goals (IJ Net)
... Vietnam: Co-operation with Laos continues to develop (VNS)
... Hundreds gather in downtown Fresno to show support for Vang Pao
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA






July 10, 2007



Lies in Laos (Guardian)
It was a well-funded coup plot. An arsenal of weapons would be assembled on US soil to hit key buildings in the capital of Laos. The target was a communist government. The conspirators had no fear of being arrested because of their status as CIA allies and recruits for the "secret war" during
Laos: Young bikers reprimanded for speeding (VT)
Most of a group of the 54 troublesome bikers, held on Saturday night for racing their bikes, were returned to their parents and relatives on Monday after being lectured by Vientiane police. Six of them, who had been found to be drug users, will be kept at Somsa-nga rehabilitation centre for treatment,
Some 130 Elephants Need to Be Evacuated from Laos Nakai Plateau (VOA)
The Wildlife Conservation Society says there are between 132 to 142 wild elephants that need to be evacuated from the Nakai Plateau by mid-2008 before that area is turned into a giant reservoir for Laos' Nam Theun 2
Prosecutors Try To Block Undercover Agent Testimony in Laos Plot Case (News10)
The U.S. Attorney in Sacramento is trying to prevent an undercover agent from testifying at a bail hearing for the 11 men being held in an alleged plot to overthrow the government of Laos. The undercover agent with the federal
Vietnam-Laos education cooperation fruitful (VNB)
Vietnam and Laos have attained good results in education cooperation since the two countries signed a cooperative agreement on this field 15 years ago. Vietnam has emerged as an attractive training destination for Lao students as their newly enrolled number increased from 60 in 1992 to more than 860 in
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Prosecutors: Viability of Laos overthrow plot irrelevant (FB)
... Govt approves decree on fees, charges for services (VT)
... Geology department to work with Korea on mineral resources (VT)
... Laos-Vietnam co-operation constantly develops (ND)
... Laos hires Vietnam coaches to prepare for SEA Games (TND)
... Guru Gobind Singh University to host students from Laos (Hindu)
... SEA: Experts link eating of raw fish to liver cancer (Standard)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA





July 09, 2007



Laos PM plans to end raw mineral exports (VientianeTimes)
Prime Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh plans to halt the export of unprocessed minerals in the future, to encourage investors to establish a local mineral processing industry, according to officials... the prime minister had advised the department to start thinking about a decree to put an end to the export of
Southern Laos: Counting the steps to heaven (Nation)
Some places can only be appreciated on foot, and you can definitely add Wat Phou in southern Laos to the list. Nestled at the base of a cliff, the ruins of this temple to Shiva demand a steep climb of more than 300 steps from those wishing to pay their respects. Like undaunted pilgrims of old, we march
Merger speculation stokes Oxiana, Zinifex (Australian)
SHARES in Oxiana and Zinifex soared today amid speculation the pair could be planning a merger as part of a defensive move to fend off predators, such as Xstrata and Teck Cominco... Oxiana operates the Sepon copper-gold mine in Laos, the Golden Grove zinc-copper-gold mine in Western Australia
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... Lao-Viet trade brisk in Lak Xao (VT)
... Survey on Lao-Viet railway to begin soon (VT)
... Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia to cooperate in tourism (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA





July 08, 2007



Hmong soldiers' service an untold history, Manitowoc Co. man says (GBPG)
Had the war in Vietnam ended in victory, much that is would not be. There would be no battle over a bill to teach Hmong history in Wisconsin schools, no news of a plot hatched in the U.S. to overthrow the Laotian government
Bridging the gap: Oshkosh PD hires first Hmong officers (NW)
Law enforcement officials and community leaders hope the addition of two Hmong police officers will help break down cultural and language barriers that exist between police and the Hmong community. The Oshkosh Police Department hired Fong Lee, 34, & Chee Vang, 22, as police officers in June
Yang's cut flowers gaining popularity in area (Messenger)
There is an understandable shyness about Mandy Yang, but her smile is as bright as the flowers that nod and sway in her beautiful garden. Yang came to California from Laos in 1984. She came from a region where people worked the fields and were proud to have work to do. “Many people had no jobs and





July 07, 2007



Laos shuts down three night clubs in Vientiane (Nation)
Vientiane authorities have issued orders to shut down two major nightclubs in Chanthabouly, after finding they were not meeting entertainment business regulations. Another nightclub in Xaythany district has made the independent decision to close its doors following an agreement with authorities before
Politicians Show Support For Hmong Community (ABC30)
It was standing room only Friday as thousands of Hmong gathered to listen to state, local, and federal leaders. Politicians organized the meeting to show support for the Hmong community, after the arrest of their leader General Vang Pao. Hmong leaders say the arrests of General Vang Pao and others
Mien salute good fortune -- Laos refugees mark three decades in U.S. with 7/7/07 festival (SacBee)
About 5,000 Mien refugees and their offspring are expected at Cal Expo today to celebrate "Three Decades of Experiences" in America. The Mien, tribal people from the mountains of northern Laos, often say they've entered
Rest of stories about Laos from other sources
... S. Korea, Laos to cooperate on natural resource development (Yonhap)
... Hanoi young people begin voluntary week in Vientiane (ND)
... Vietnamese and Lao localities sign co-operation pact (ND)
... Laos Cultural Week to begin in Vietnam (ND)
... Thailand's child trafficking industry (BBC News)




July 06, 2007



Lao-Americans Participated in Smithsonian's July 4th Celebration (VOA, Bangkok Post or Smithsonian Institute)
The Lao-American community in the Washington area takes part in the Smithsonian Museum's July 4th activities by displaying a replica of Laos' rocket or Bang Fai in a traditional procession. The July 4th activities are
Laos' first Austrian wood processor exports veneers (VT)
The Eurasia Veneer (Laos) Company Limited, based in Khammuan province, plans to increase its wood processing capacity from one to eight containers per month for export to t