This page was updated: Sunday, December 02, 2007 11:42 AM -0500

October 31, 2007



Laos: Consular Dept proposes tourist visa fee increase (VT)
The Consular Dept ... may increase tourist visa fees for foreigners to enter Laos after finding the current charge is low compared to some other countries in Asia. At present, a visa on arrival costs 288,000 kip (US$30) per person; under the proposal, this would increase to 432,000 kip (US$45).
China Southern launches first Laos service (M2)
China Southern Airlines will be launching a new service to Laos next week. The airline said that starting 6 November it will operate a service between Guangzhou and Vientiane, which is China Southern's first to Laos and its tenth to a southeast Asia destination. The new service will be operated with
Japan to help Laos build road to link with Cambodia, Vietnam (VNA/Mathaba)
The Lao and Japanese governments have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU), under which Japan will help Laos build a road connecting Laos ’ southern Attapeu province with neighbouring Cambodia
MSF appeals for Lao-Hmong not to be repatriated (Nation)
Having kept silent for more than two years about its work providing humanitarian assistance to 7,500 Hmong refugees in Phetchabun, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) made a public appeal yesterday for Thai authorities to halt the forced repatriation of the Hmong to Laos. Published on November 1
Thailand: Medical charity slams Lao-Hmong ethnic minority deportations (AKI or MNT)
Top humanitarian organisation Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) has called on the Thai government to halt the forced repatriation of 7,500 refugees from Laos who belong to the Hmong ethnic minority. MSF says the deportations
More stories about Laos from other sources
... WB grants US$15m for poverty reduction (VT)
... US economist: resource income should benefit all (VT)
... Vietnam and Laos to build trade centre in Vientiane (ND)





October 30, 2007



Pan Aust. says Laos mine on track & within budget (EGOLI)
Pan Australian says Laos mine on track and within budgetPan Australian Resources Limited (PNA) announced that development at its Phu Kham copper-gold mine in Laos was on track and within budget. The miner said it expected production to commence in the March quarter of 2008.
Laos: Business licence holders warned (VientianeTimes)
Business licence holders who permit foreigners to use their licences to operate a business have been warned that they may face problems if the new business is in any way illegal, according to a high-ranking official. The Director of the Vientiane Department of Industry and Commerce
Hmong: Wausau teen, 17, charged after stabbings (FDLR)
A 17-year-old Wausau boy was charged Monday with three counts of second-degree reckless endangerment in connection with a weekend party that ended with three people being stabbed. Marathon County Circuit Court Judge Patrick Brady set a $5,000 cash bond for Chia Meng Xiong.
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Expo showcases China-Asean trade (VT)
... Saravan repairs irrigation for dry season (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 29, 2007



For an authentic taste of Lao life and culture, look beyond Vientiane (Australian or News)Oct 27, 2007
After a one-hour flight from Bangkok and landing at Undon Thani, it is easy to pick my Lao friend Khom from the bustling crowd in the airport foyer. Being more than 180cm tall, Khom is hard to miss and his welcoming smile shines
Laos: Highs, lows mark the end of Buddhist Lent (VT)
Despite Friday being a working day for government officials, many offices were relatively empty as many chose instead to gather at temples to make merit to mark the end of Buddhist Lent. Laypeople throughout the country awoke early in the morning to offer food to the monks on their alms rounds.
Banpu skips IPP bidding in favour of Laos (Nation)
Banpu looks forward to benefiting if proposals for coal-fired power plants fail to win the bidding for independent power producer (IPP) projects, as it is already developing such a plant in Laos. Published on October 29, 2007 The Hongsa Lignite coal mine and electricity-generating plant project, with annual
Cloak & Dagger -- Why did a Hmong-American hatch a plot to violently overthrow the government of Laos? (MM)
Watch who you trust, warned Gary George. They sat in the upscale Grafton home of the once-formidable Milwaukee lawmaker, with its scenic view of Lake Michigan. They made an unusual pair. George was then on parole, still
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Senior Chinese PC official leaves for DPRK, Vietnam, Laos (PD)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 28, 2007



Discover an inner calm in northern Laotian village (CO)
Every morning at sunrise, the deep sound of beating drums wakes the sleepy people of Luang Prabang in northern Laos, calling them to line the streets. They wait patiently as barefoot Buddhist monks, tattooed in Pali sutras and clad in saffron-hued robes, walk the streets, collecting their daily alms.
Hmong fight over exhumed bodies a 'human thing' (APC)
Nearly 100 Hmong leaders and concerned people from across the country gathered Saturday to discuss the fate of Hmong graves desecrated at a Buddhist monastery in Thailand. Members of the National Hmong Grave Desecration Committee explained before Saturday's conference why
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Free Screening of 'Hunted Like Animals' on Tuesday, Oct. 30 in Sac.
... China, ASEAN trade, economic ties enter new phase (Xinhua)
... Hanoi youth forum discusses problems facing Mekong countries (TNN)





October 27, 2007



Country profile: Laos (BBC News)
Laos, one of the world's few remaining communist states, is one of east Asia's poorest countries. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 it has struggled to find its position within a changing political and economic landscape. Communist forces overthrew the monarchy in 1975, heralding
Valley Hmong Express Political Views (ABC30)
Advocates for the valley's Hmong community are preparing to be a big presence at a voter's forum in Sacramento Sunday.  200 of them are leaving Fresno in the morning, and they're picking up another 50 people in Merced. The voter's forum is a chance for voters to express their views to several
Hue’s international road access attracts swarms of Thai tourists (VNS)
More than 15,000 Thai visitors visited the historic city of Hue this week, setting a record for tours, the Thua Thien-Hue tourism authority has announced. On Tuesday, Hue welcomed nearly 6,000 Thai visitors, most of




October 26, 2007



Lao-Americans among those affected by CA wildfires (VOA)
Among those affected are Laotian-American Anourack Soukhaserm and his family, who reside in Spring Valley. Luckily, they have relatives to go to for help, so they did not end up in Qualcom Stadium. Anourack discussed his family's flight to safety in a telephone interview with VOA. "The fire that
Foreigners float their boat in Laos festival (Reuters Life!)
It's the end of the Buddhist lent on Friday and for the village of Ban Saifong Neua, like the rest of Laos, that means prayers, blessings -- and dragon boat racing.  Men and women's teams compete in the races, but what sets Ban Saifong Neua apart is that it is the only village that fields a team of expatriate
Filling in the blanks of Southeast Asian prehistory - Laos (SD)
As archaeologists in the last half century have set about reconstructing the prehistory of Southeast Asia, data from one country—centrally located Laos—was conspicuously missing. Little archaeology has occurred in Laos since before World War II, and beginning in the mid-1970s, Laos shut its
AirAsia Adding Laos' Capital To Destinations (Bernama, AHN)
Budget carrier AirAsia is set to begin its inaugural flight into Vientiane from Dec 1, 2007. Laos has given the airline approval to enter its capital city, AirAsia said in a statement today. AirAsia will start with three direct flights per week to Vientiane from the Low-Cost Carrier Terminal at the Kuala Lumpur
China, Laos Signed A $57.8 Million Deal To Upgrade Luang Prabang Airport (AHN)
The governments of China and Laos signed a $57.8 million loan agreement for the upgrading of the international airport in the northern Laotian city of Luang Prabang. Yakua Lopangkao, head of the Civil Aviation Department of
Laos: Over 1,500 Hectares Still Under Opium Cultivation (VOA)
Laos' highest ranking drug official acknowledges that former opium growers have gone back to growing opium because of poverty and lack of alternative way of making a living. Even though Laos has declared itself opium-free, there are now over 1,500 hectares of land still under opium cultivation,
Laos: Health insurers allow members to change hospitals (VT)
Subscribers to the health insurance scheme are being permitted to switch their designated hospital next month, following a string of complaints over poor service. Since the Social Security Organisation was established in 2001, members of the scheme have been obliged to choose the hospital
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Lao PM attends China-Asean expo (VT)
... Laos: Legacy of Mines - A US government trend (iViews)
... Laos: Health dept urges caution over food hygiene (VT)
... U.S. grants waiver to ease plight of Hmong (WKBT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 25, 2007



Egat ready to sign purchase deals for 4 projects in Laos (BP)
The EGAT expects to sign power purchasing agreements (PPA) with hydroelectric plant operators in Laos by the end of the year, says governor Kraisi Karnasuta. The four projects with a combined capacity of 1,460 megawatts (MW) are all scheduled to start commercial operations between
Thailand to buy 220 MW of power from Lao dam (Reuters/Y!)
Thailand agreed on Thursday to buy another 220 megawatts of electricity produced by a hydroelectric dam in Laos as part of a long-term plan to buy 7,000 MW from its landlocked neighbour. The EGAT said in a statement it had signed a memorandum of understanding with the Nam Thuen-Hinboun
Lao Govt recognises Korean businessman (VientianeTimes)
A businessman from the Republic of Korea , Dr Lee Joong Keun, yesterday received a First Class Development Medal in Vientiane for his contribution to education in Laos. Prime Minister Mr Bouasone Bouphavanh presented the medal at the Prime Minister's Office on behalf of the government to
PAR: Announce Record Levels of Gold-Silver in Laos (ABN)
Production at the Pan Australian Resource's Phu Kham Heap Leach Gold Operation (formerly known as the Phu Bia Gold Mine) in Laos has ramped-up and reached record levels. Gold shipments for October will total over 4,400 oz. The strong production performance highlights the success of the strategy
More stories about Laos from other sources
... In pictures: Unusual Lao cuisine (BBC News)
... UN celebrates 52 years of fighting poverty (VT)
... Laos: Foundation awards top students, teachers (VT)
... Seminar held on Vietnam-Laos personnel training (VN)
... Hmong conference to be held soon (Manitowoc Herald Times)
... Day Six: Isan Famil Trip (eTB)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 24, 2007



Wedding Planner: Center Discriminatory To Friends - Woman Says Previous Laotian Wedding Caused Extra Charges (WSMV)
A couple said they’ve been set apart by what seems like discrimination because they were almost charged extra fees based on where the guests for their wedding come from. Video: Woman Says Center Discriminated Against
Laos demands licences for border trade (Bangkok Post, MCOT)
Thai operators transporting goods between Thailand & Laos must be licensed by the Department of Land Transport, or they cannot enter the neighbouring country. Dept of Land Transport director-general Silpachai Jarukasemratana said that Laos bans vehicles without such licenses from entering the country.
Laos: Boat races cut to one day only (VientianeTimes)
The Organising Committee of the Vientiane Boat Racing Festival decided yesterday to re-organise this year's festival to include just one day of racing, instead of two as previously arranged. A member of the Sub-Committee of Security for the festival, Mr Khamsing Khamleu, announced that the races will
Vietnam to Invest in Additional Thirteen Projects in Laos (VOA)
Vietnam who is already Laos' third major investor has announced additional investments in Laos in 13 projects totalling some $3.5 billion, including two projects worth $1.7 billion to explore for oil and gas in Champassack and Salavan provinces, and another project to build a 1,400 MW hydro-power
Lost in Laos - The waterfalls of Champasak are the voice of nature, powerful and majestic, beckoning and mesmerising (BP)
Ban Nong Luang, a peaceful rural village in Laos' southern province of Champasak, is nowhere on the tourist map. But for a certain breed of Thai travellers _ the trekkers _ this coffee-growing community on the Bolaven
Lao movie in DVD: Rescue Dawn (Talk DVD)
Ten years later, Herzog returns to Dengler's story, this time to shoot a feature film concentrating on the six month period in which Dengler was imprisoned in a P.O.W. camp in the jungles of Laos. When the movie begins, Dengler (played amazingly well by Christian Bale of The Machinist and Batman
More stories about Laos from other sources
... PM receives Cuban ambassador (VT)
... Govt to encourage rural officials (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA





October 23, 2007



Luang Prabang airport to be rebuilt (VientianeTimes)
The government will invest about 554 billion kip (US$57.8 million) to rebuild the Luang Prabang airport in Luang Prabang province, to accommodate larger aircraft. This is to ensure the airport meets international standards, and can accommodate Boeing 737s and ATR320s. The project is also in
Oxiana flags cost overrun at SA mine (AAP/Yahoo)
Gold output from Sepon came in at 22,355 ounces, down on the previous corresponding quarter's result of 51,242 ounces. But Copper output from Sepon was 7.7 per cent higher than the previous corresponding period at 16,139 tonnes. Oxiana said Sepon was on track to produce 100,000 ounces
Thai Human Rights Commission to Assist Lao Hmong Refugees (VOA)
Thailand's Human Rights Commission says it will look for ways to assist the Hmong refugees currently being held in a temporary holding center at Ban Huay Nam khao in Phetchabun province. The Commission, who recently
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Laos anticipates Francophonie meeting (VT)
... Nile riparian countries learn about the Mekong (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 22, 2007



Laos: Families relocated to make way for new bridge (VT)
The residents of 10 properties located at the site of the new Hinheup Bridge in Vientiane province have been evicted to clear the area for construction. The project has paid more than 1 billion kip in compensation for the families to help them relocate from the construction site, said the Head of the Hinheup
Laos keen to import medicines, cement from Bangladesh (DS)
Visiting Laotian First Vice FM Phongsavath Boupha yesterday said his country is interested to import medicines, cement, ceramic, light engineering products, leather, steel and agro-products from Bangladesh. He also invited Bangladeshi businesspeople to go for joint ventures in hydropower, tourism
Hmong community flourishes in festivity (Coulee News)
The Hmong community in the Coulee Region kicked off a new year with ceremonial fanfare. Instead of fireworks, they sent balloons into the air to officially release the old year and welcome the new. This year’s celebration, held this past weekend at West Salem’s Veterans Memorial Park, enjoyed
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Flights to Laos (China Economy)
... Biogas to reduce wood consumption in Vientiane (VT)
... Laos: Candlelight vigil to campaign for freedom from hunger (VT)
... Wisconsin DNR reaches out to Hmong hunters (KSTP)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA





October 21, 2007



In Laos, new bloodshed from long-ago war (LA Times/ND)
"To" is a shy, 7-year-old boy, wincing from the stabbing pain of jagged shrapnel in his leg, a casualty of a war that ended 25 years before he was born. He is too young to understand why a weapon brought halfway around the world lay hidden in the dirt behind his wooden house, waiting to explode.
Guest column: The secret war of the Hmong of Laos (GBPG)
It is sad that most Americans don't know about the Hmong, freedom-loving people of Laos. The conflict that raged from the early 1960s until 1975 was called the Vietnam War. In 1961 the CIA recruited the Hmong people of Laos into a Secret War. The Hmong thought the United States wanted them to




October 20, 2007



Laos Imports Decline 74.7% From Last Year (VOA)
Laos' Ministry of Industry and Trade reports that the country's imports for the first nine months of this year total $621 million, a 26% decline from the same period in 2006, while exports increase 4.4% to more than $648 million. The statistics lead Lao officials to believe that they will definitely have a trade
China Southern Airlines to launch Guangzhou-Vientiane flight next month (XinhuaNet)
China Southern Airlines will launch direct flight service between Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong Province, and Vientiane of Laos from November 6. This will be the only flight linking Guangzhou and Laos.
Bangladesh, Laos agree to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, tourism (XinhuaNet)
Bangladesh and Laos agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment and tourism sectors. The broad-based agreement came at a meeting between Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Touhid Hossain and visiting Laotian First
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Vice President praises ties between Viet & Lao Trade Unions (ND)




October 19, 2007



Laos joins world record stand-up against poverty (VT)
More than 300 people from every section of Vientiane 's diverse community packed the French Language Centre and stood together during a concert on Wednesday night to call for an end to poverty. The Concert Against Poverty was organised by the UN in Laos in cooperation with the Lao government to
Laos: Art, War, Life, Unscripted (Sampan)
The war in Laos was a secret part of the United States’ war in Vietnam. Fearful that communism in southeast Asia was spreading to the landlocked country in the north, and that in the south North Vietnamese forces were shipping supplies via the Ho Chi Min Trail through Laos too forces in South
Lao-American Fashion Designer Nary Manivong Launched His Own Design Label (VOA)
25-year old Laotian-American fashion designer Nary Manivong paraded his 2007 Spring Collection in New York City during the New York Fashion Week. In a recent interview with VOA, Nary talked proudly about his creations and
Vietnam, Laos trade unions sign co-op agreement (VNA)
A delegation from the Central Committee of the Lao Federation of Trade Unions, led by its president, Vongphet Saygueyachongtoua, arrived in Viet Nam yesterday for a week long visit. At a working session with the Lao delegation yesterday, Viet Nam General Confederation of Labour (VGCL)
Hmong Cultural Center Fundraising Banquet (APP)
Show your support for the Hmong Cultural Center by attending the 2007 Fundraising Banquet. Proceeds from the event will go directly to fund programs at the Center and to purchase new materials for the library. The Banquet will be held on Sunday, October 28, 2007 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. 
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Laos on track to reach UN goals (VT)
... VUDAA fields increasing garbage complaints (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA





October 18, 2007



Laos: HIV/AIDS Infection on the Rise (VOA)
Random screening indicates that HIV/AIDS infection is on the rise in Laos. 2006 screening in border areas shows more than 800 cases of new infections, while over 2,400 have entered hospitals to receive treatment, according to government statistics. Laos' Anti-AIDS Commission says
Mission to feed Laos children helps keep LQ lady fulfilled (MD)
Mary Meyer was serving pan fried chicken to families at Murph's Gaslight in Bermuda Dunes when she decided she wanted to do more with her life. She retired from waitressing three years ago, founded Indigo Threads, a nonprofit humanitarian organization and headed to Laos, where she lives six months of
Thai to buy another 2,000 MW of power from Laos (Reuters)
Thailand agreed on Thursday to buy another 2,000 megawatts of electricity from hydropower dams in neighbouring Laos on top of 5,000 MW it had already agreed to buy by 2015, the National Energy Policy Board said on Thursday. The board said in a statement it had approved an Electricity
Egat threatens to move coal plants to Laos (Bangkok Post)
The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) plans to develop coal-fired power plants in neighbouring countries to serve Thailand's power demand unless local anti-coal activists stop protesting, says Egat governor Kraisi Karnasuta. Under the new Power Development Plan, Egat is required
Viet businesses to invest US$3.5 billion in Laos (VE)
Vietnamese businesses will invest in 13 projects in Laos to the tune of US$3.5 billion. The announcement was made by General Director of the Bank for Investment and Development of Viet Nam (BIDV) Tran Bac Ha while he met with Lao Deputy Prime Minister and President of the Laos-Viet Nam Co-op
PM: Lao workforce needs improvement (VientianeTimes)
Lao PM Bouasone Bouphavanh yesterday asked all officials connected to the Labour & Social Welfare Ministry to help improve the skills of Lao labourers, as part of the country's socio-economic development process. Mr Bouasone spoke to more than 100 leading officials from various ministries, institutes,
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Laos Vice FM calls on foreign secretary (APP)
... Germany extends backing for manuscript survey in Laos (VT)
... Laos: Party leader advises labour ministry to improve management (VT)
... Out with a boom: Hmong New Year celebration draws big crows (HC)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA






October 17, 2007



Speakers [from Laos] to Tell 'Cluster Bomb' Story (EMU)
Four persons from Lebanon and Laos will reflect on the reality and tragic effects of cluster bombs on their families, communities and countries in a story tour coming to EMU. Phounsy Phasavaeng and Lasee Phetsavong of Laos and Raed Mokaled and Bassam Chamoun of South Lebanon will speak
Japanese firm plans mining operation in Laos (VientianeTimes)
The President of Marubeni Corporation of Japan , Mr Nobuo Katsumata, met with Prime Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh on Monday to express interest in investing in the mining sector in Laos. During a one-day visit to Laos Mr Katsumata, who is also Marubeni's Chief Executive Officer, expressed his
Petrovietnam plans $1.7 bln power plant in Laos (Reuters)
State oil group Petrovietnam has signed an agreement with Laos to invest $1.7 billion in a hydro power plant in Luang Prabang, company officials said on Wednesday. The 1,410-megawatt (MW) power plant will be under build-operate-transfer investment terms, they said, but declined to provide
UNESCO to Review Luang Prabang's WHS (VOA)
The UNESCO is sending a delegation to Luang Prabang, Laos' former royal capital, next month to review its World Heritage status. The UNESCO delegation will determine whether the city has maintained its traditional, cultural and architectural heritage. The status review is done every ten years
Vietnam, Laos cooperate in producing high-quality wood (AP/Y)
Vietnam's Savimex Company on October 15 signed an agreement with a wood processing company in Laos' Champasak province on producing high-quality wood products for domestic consumption and export. Under the agreement, Savimex will provide modern equipment and upgrade production
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Opium production in Laos dwindles (VT)
... Laos: Saville gets the gong for Noise (Australian)3rd paragraph
... Local Hmong couple loses guardianship of drowned woman's children
... Hmong officer accused of attempted murder kept photo of other woman
... Hmong: Sheriff's Deputies Use Taser to End Brawl (WEAU)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 16, 2007



Expert urges speedy Thai-Laos bridge work (Bangkok Post)
Thailand should accelerate the construction of the third Thai-Laos bridge crossing Mekong River so that it is finished by mid-2010 to prevent the loss of trade opportunities, says a logistics expert. Thailand and China are jointly building the two-billion-baht bridge and splitting the construction cost, said
Lao Govt helped flood victims (VientianeTimes)
The Lao Govt provided 300 million kip and 30 tonnes of rice to authorities in Saravan province earlier this month to assist farmers who have been the victims of flooding. Torrential rain from October 1-7 flooded about 150 villages, destroyed 9,000 hectares of rice & flooded another 10,000 hectares,
Laos: New Dams Depend on Feasibility Study Results (VOA)
Laos plans to build four more dams and have signed MOUs with foreign companies to perform feasibility studies. But in response to expressed concerns by international environmental groups, it says the actual construction of those dams will depend on the results of the feasibility studies
Laos: Devpt. of Savanh-Seno Economic Zone On Track (VOA)
Lao officials say the development of Laos' first special economic zone in Savannkhet is on track and is expected to meet completion schedule in two years as planned. Thai investors who were given the right to develop the 270-hectare zone near the second Lao-Thai Friendship bridge expected to
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Brief: Quake hits Laos; Tremors felt in the North (BP)
... Exchange of visits helps to strengthen Lao-Luxembourg relations (VT)
... Statistics law under debate for future development (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 15, 2007



Thailand, Laos enhance efforts to control bird flu (TNA)
Thai Public Health Minister Mongkol Na Songkhla on Mon. emphasized cooperation between Thailand & Laos in preventing potential bird flu outbreaks along the border. Speaking after meeting with Lao Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Dr. Tee Phommasack, Mr. Mongkol said the two
Vientiane to celebrate 450th anniversary in 2010 (VT)
On Independence Day, October 12, senior officials informed the public of plans to celebrate the 450th anniversary of the establishment of Vientiane as the capital of Laos in 2010. Around 1,000 people gathered at the National Culture Hall on Friday to hear a talk on the history of Vientiane and
Business trip mulls investment in Laos (VNA)
Laos hopes that Viet Nam will soon establish an investor’s association in Laos to help promote investment co-operation between the two countries, said Lao Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad. Last Saturday, Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad met with 40 Vietnamese representatives from
Hmong in US: Linda shooter sentenced to 9 years (AD)
A Yuba County man who peppered a Linda neighborhood with up to 15 shots from a semiautomatic rifle was sentenced today to nine years, eight months in prison. Cheng Yang, 25, was sentenced by Yuba County Judge James L. Curry after pleading no contest to assault with a semiautomatic weapon.
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Thousands walk together to mark Disaster Day (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA





October 14, 2007



Brothers in arms with mission to save lives in Laos (SMH)
As trades go, they do not come much more dangerous than bomb disposal. Lorraine Stevens needed no reminding of that when she watched the compelling new Australian documentary Bomb Harvest. The film centres on her son Laith, 38, who works for a non-government organisation defusing
Lao-Hmong plead with UNHCR (Nation)
Hmong living a camp in Phetchabun yesterday pleaded with a national human rights commissioner to assist them with mass relocation to the US. Published on October 15, 2007 The Laos-born Hmong and their relatives without Thai citizenship made the plea at a question-and-answer session during a visit by
Flow of tourists from Indochina seen surging (Bangkok Post)
Private tourism operators are being urged to prepare for an influx of foreign tourists as the East-West Economic Corridor linking Burma, Thailand, Laos & Vietnam approaches completion. According to Arkhom Termpittayapaisith, deputy secretary general to National Economic & Social Development Board
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Thai tourists flock to Greater Mekong area (VNB)
... Intra-Asean tourism to double (TID)




October 13, 2007



Laotians live with a lethal legacy (Star Tribune)
He is a shy boy, wincing from the pain of jagged shrapnel in his leg, a casualty of a war that ended 25 years before he was born. His name is To and he is 7, too young to understand why a weapon brought halfway around the world lay hidden in the dirt behind his wooden house, waiting to explode.
Lao-Hmong reburial accord reached (APC)
A national delegation of Hmong representatives has negotiated a deal with Thai officials for the reburial of 211 Hmong bodies. The bodies were exhumed from the grounds of a Buddhist monastery in Thailand two years ago. Michael Yang of St. Paul, Minn., a member of a national Hmong
Golden Triangle heroin on the rise: UN (SAM)
Southeast Asia's notorious "Golden Triangle" has long been the nexus of opium production, which in turn has supplied a steady stream of heroin to the global market. This perverse globalization has seen a surge in Burma's illegal opium cultivation, according to a report released by the U.N.




October 12, 2007



Laos: Photography Exhibition - "Lumiere du Mekong" by Peter Livermore (VOA)
Peter Livermore, an Englishman has traveled to Laos many times for the past twenty years. He felt in love with Laos and Lao people when he visited Laos for the first time in 1989. “I love Laos, I love Lao people. It seems like in my
Historic Lao–Thai connection to launch in April 2008 (eTBA)
A historic ‘Friendship Railway’ between Laos and Thailand is set for an on-time scheduled launch in April of 2008, with half of the track-work already complete. The ambitious plan connecting the two countries will make use of existing Thai railways, at the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, and blaze a path
That Luang marsh slated for development (VientianeTimes)
Vientiane authorities have agreed to designate That Luang marsh in central Vientiane and surrounding areas as the centre of a new development zone, according to a senior official. The head of the Vientiane Administration Office, Mr Oudone Xaymontry, said on Wednesday that the agreement to
Laos Football Federation's Soulivanh Xuenvilay (Goal)
The new general secretary of the Laos Football Federation (LFF) Soulivanh Xuenvilay is a rather familiar face in Asean football. Having been a former international for Laos, the appointment of Xuenvilay as the main man to lead the LFF can be seen as completing a circle of sorts following an illustrious
Film reveals plight of Hmong in Laos (WDH)
The Hmong community in central Wisconsin still faces challenges integrating into the community. Sometimes racial tension erupts into violence, as was the case this year when hunter James Nichols murdered Cha Vang in the Peshtigo Wildlife Area, a crime for which he was found guilty last week.
The Hmong Crisis in Thailand Involved Laos - Continue (PU)
The plight of the Hmong is continuing to be on the rise in Thailand - erosion from Laos. An issue that not many countries are interested in and enjoy to process; not even the Hmong themselves want to process. It is a matter of life and death. Someone has to deal with and go through. Hmong have to go
More stories about Laos from other sources
... A hotel in Luang Prabang (Times Online)
... Lao President welcomes new ambassadors (VT)
... Laos: Workers call for better conditions (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 11, 2007



In Laos, a Touch of Paris (The Street)
At 5:59 in the morning, Luang Prabang could be any small city snuggled in the sleepy hills of Southern France. The crooked streets, some paved with cobblestones, others not paved at all, are empty and last night's rain -- it's the tail end of the monsoon here -- is evaporating into the humid air, shrouding
Laos Government Crackdown On Christians Continues; Several Killed And Detained, reports (BNL or Compass DN)
A village church in Laos that once had nearly 2,000 members has shrunk to only a few dozen daring to attend, amid a deadly government crackdown on local believers accused of being "separatist rebels," a Christian news agency
Laos: To hell with heffalumps (Online Opinion)
Last year the wildly successful Elephant festival in Hongsa attracted about 10,000 visitors. About 2,000 of those were foreigners, some leaning heavily on sticks, others elegantly attired, others dreadlocked and ganja inspired. They had made, in white fella terms, an epic journey. It’s not like Hongsa is
First Laos Thailand railway sets to open early 2008 (VNA)
The first friendship railway linking Laos and Thailand is set to be completed on schedule in April 2008 since half the construction work has already finished. According to a recent fact-finding report submitted to Lao Prime Minister Bouasone Buphavanh, the remaining work for the 3.5 km railway
IT engineer creates Lao anti-virus program (VientianeTimes)
A young man from Vientiane has become the first Lao IT engineer to create a Lao anti-virus program to protect local computer users. Mr Alexai Siphone, 27, has been providing free editions of the program, Lao Antivirus Personal 9.0, to users in Laos since January this year. “The program will be free for
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Laos Delays WTO Entry (VOA)
... Lao President receives new ambassadors (VT)
... Lao, Thai transporters to increase cooperation (VT)
... 211 Hmong bodies may rest in peace in Thailand, local group says
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 10, 2007



Took 8 years, but Lakeland woman works from home (Ledger)
When Manyvonne Champavannarth graduated from Polk Community College eight years ago, she figured her business degree and computer skills would be enough to quickly land a job, and overshadow the limitations of her cerebral palsy.  But it was just the beginning of a long, frustrating wait that
Lao-Thai: Cross country bike race starts on Oct 28 (Nation)
To boost the usage of a small bridge over a small river bordering Thailand and Laos, the Association of Thai-Lao friendship is organising a cross country mountain bike race later this month, officials said. The race will be on October 28. The small bridge across the Huan River connecting Loei's Tha
Deforestation, corruption rank as highest local concerns (VT)
Deforestation and corruption among officials ranked as the top issues raised by National Assembly members for Vientiane recently, after collecting suggestions of local problems to be submitted to the fourth NA session in December. Nine of the 15 NA members for the Vientiane constituency, led by
Village Chief Urges Hmong Refugees to Return Home (VOA)
The chief of Ban Phalak, a village established by Lao officials in Kasi, province of Vientiane, to accommodate the Hmong refugees who will be repatriated from Thailand, calls on the refugees to voluntarily return home. Mr. Lao Paosong says returning home is the best option for the refugees
Hmong celebrate New Year, new beginnings (Orion)
When thinking of the New Year, party hats, glittery glasses and the toot and rattle of noisemakers come to mind. But for the Hmong people, the New Year symbolizes something different. The Hmong culture, predominately found in China, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Burma, France, Australia and the U.S.,
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Lao-Thai railway takes shape (VT)
... Laos: Party leader gives talks to energy ministry officials (VT)
... Hmong: Agreement to rebury graves desecrated in Thailand (PP)
... Remains Of Texas Vietnam Vet Laid To Rest (CBS11TV)
... Book into the best of Indo-China (News)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 09, 2007



Vientiane road accident toll rises (VientianeTimes)
The number of reported road accidents for the fiscal year 2005-2006 was 2,091 rising to 2,270 in the fiscal year 2006-2007, while the number of fatalities in the same period rose from 130 to 168, according to Vientiane Traffic Police last week . The number of people seriously injured in accidents
Laos recognised for its ecotourism website (e-Travel Blackboard)
The Laos National Tourism Administration has received an award from Planeta.com for its website www.ecotourismlaos.com that has been recognised for its standout ability to promote ecotourism. The “2007 Ecotourism Spotlight Award” is awarded by Planeta.com to a Govt website on
Tourists to Laos to enjoy Viet and Thai cultures (VNB)
Tourists to Laos will have the chance to learn about the culture and traditions of the country and those of its neighbours, Thailand and Vietnam, when paying a visit to a culture village to be built in Bolykhamxay province. The agreement to set up the “Village of culture”, a 197-ha facility in Phayath
AirAsia To Fly To Vientiane & Banda Aceh (Bernama or BT)
Low cost carrier, AirAsia Bhd will fly four times a week to Vientiane, Laos and three times a week to Banda Aceh, Indonesia starting next month, its group chief executive officer, Datuk Tony Fernandes said today. "With Vientiane, AirAsia covers all the Asean countries, making it a truly Asean
Maids from India, Nepal, Laos and Vietnam (The Star)
Malaysians would be able hire maids from India, Nepal, Laos and Vietnam because of increasing demand and the difficulty in getting domestic helpers from Indonesia. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the recruitment of maids from the four countries would take place only after
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Vietnam eyes Huaphan iron mining (VT)
... Vietnamese NA delegation visits Laos (VT)
... Knowlton Hmong-Owned Store Vandalized... Again (WSAW)
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... Other stories from Laos NA




October 08, 2007



Laos still faces Vietnam-era danger (Los Angeles Times)
He is a shy boy, wincing from the stabbing pain of jagged shrapnel in his leg, a casualty of a war that ended 25 years before he was born. His name is To and he is 7, too young to understand why a weapon brought halfway around the world lay hidden in the dirt behind his wooden house, waiting to explode.
Chinese investors invade Laos (Nation or EarthTimes)
Laos was once unique in South-East Asia for its remarkably small overseas Chinese business community. Under colonial rule, the French had a policy of keeping Chinese immigrants out, bringing in Vietnamese instead to run the shops and make the economy tick. When Laos went communist in 1975,
Laos: retreat to the rainforest (Telegraph)
In a lodge in the Laotian rainforest, Sasha Bates finds that learning to live like the common people makes her appreciate the luxury of her own life. You never quite know how you are going to react in a crisis. Naturally I have always assumed that I would remain cool, calm and collected.
Heavy rain halts harvesting in Vientiane (VientianeTimes)
Heavy rains that lashed Vientiane in the last few days have forced farmers to abandon their rice harvesting. The rains brought a halt to harvesting and drying of the crop in the fields but fortunately no damage was done as the rice had not been collected up. Vientiane farmers are currently harvesting
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Birdie Xaphakdy - Behind The Moment (VOA)
... Lao PM meets farmers in Hadxaifong (VT)
... Three nations to build cultural village in Laos (VT)
... Lao-Thai Border: Two arrested in pangolin bust (BP)
... Hmong Association brings hope early in celebrating new year (ER)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 07, 2007



Police foiled attempt to smuggle 512 kgs of marijuana from Laos (Nation or Xinhua)
Police intercepted an attempt to smuggle 512 kilogrammes of marijuana from Laos to this northeastern province early Sunday morning. Police arrested two Thai men, Mongkol Khanajote, 29, and Bansorn Dejhome, 40, who admitted
Mien in U.S.: Hip to the homeland (Sac Bee)
Saan Saelee, a faucet of fun and laughter, shows you a few photographs of his ancestral homeland. The hazy mountains of Laos. This emerald rice paddy. His elfin grandfather in tribal attire with red headdress. Most of what Saan Saelee knows about his Iu Mien heritage is word of mouth, an oral





October 06, 2007



What about Luang Prabang? (The Star)
Luang Prabang, the cultural capital of less-visited Laos, is one of the most mysterious towns in South-East Asia. Luang Prabang is not easy to reach. Call me selfish but I would like to keep it that way. Getting to the place, 700m above sea level in Laos’ mountainous northern region, needs more than just
Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam agree on tourism cooperation (VNB)
Tourism ministers of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam issued a joint declaration on trilateral cooperation at their meeting in Ho Chi Minh City on October 5. The three countries agreed to encourage their national tourism agencies to boost exchange of information and experiences in tourism development and
Hunter guilty in Hmong's death (AP/Yahoo! or USA Today)
A jury on Friday found a white former sawmill worker guilty in the shooting and stabbing death of a Hmong immigrant with whom he crossed paths while both were hunting squirrels in the northern Wisconsin woods earlier this year.  The jury found James Nichols guilty of second-degree intentional
Wausau cop's actions in car crash were his own, Hmong declare (Green Bay PG)
The attempted homicide charges brought Monday against veteran Wausau Police officer Chueng Lee sent shockwaves through the Hmong community, because Lee's position made him a leader in the community.
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Hmong grocer reaches out to multicultural audience (NW)




October 05, 2007



Laos: Police investigate forgery gang (VientianeTimes)
Vientiane police are currently questioning two men and one woman after their recent arrest for possession of fake US banknotes amounting to US$20,300 (194.8 million kip). The arrests took place several weeks ago following months of close surveillance of the group. Police are now investigating possible links
Laos Unable to Complete Nationality Verification of Lao Workers in Thailand (VOA)
Lao authorities say they will not be able to complete nationality verification of all Lao workers registered in Thailand within the 3-year timeframe originally agreed upon with Thai officials, because of lack of cooperation on the part of
Pan Australian ahead of schedule on Laos copper (Reuters)
Pan Australian Resources says production at its copper-gold mine in Laos will start ahead of schedule, managing director Gary Stafford said on Thursday. Construction was underway at the Phu Kham project & production could start in February or March instead of mid-2008, Stafford told Reuters in
Malaysian company to invest 500 million USD in Laos (TM)
Malaysia's Giant Group Ltd (GGL) will invest close to 500 million USD in re-building the Namphao hydroelectric power plant in Khamkeuth district of Bolykhamsay province. An agreement to the effect was recently signed between the GGL and the Lao Electrotechnic Co. Ltd. and Laos's
Trial of hunter accused of killing Hmong man wrapping up with defense resting Friday (AP/CBS or WKBT)
Defense lawyers for a white man accused of killing a Hmong immigrant as the two were squirrel hunting rested their case Friday without calling him to the stand. James Nichols, 29, of Peshtigo, is charged with killing Cha Vang,
More stories about Laos from other sources
... PM welcomes Australian Ambassador (VT)
... Minister delivers Teachers' Day message (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 04, 2007



Fast Facts: Laos (CBS News)
Modern-day Laos has its roots in the ancient Lao kingdom of Lan Xang, established in the 14th Century under King FA NGUM. For three hundred years Lan Xang included large parts of present-day Cambodia and Thailand, as well as all of what is now Laos. After centuries of gradual decline, Laos
Owner of Bangkok Restaurant Heads to Laos to Help Repair a School (Ellesworth American)
Pronsavanh Soutthivong, owner of the Bangkok Thai restaurant on High Street, has traveled to her homeland, Laos, every year for the last 10 years. During that time, she has contributed her efforts & money to the construction
French human rights official praises govt policy (VT)
A French human rights official praised the policies of the Lao government of providing facilities and food to Lao Hmong who have returned from Thailand . The comment was made by the Ambassador of Human Rights to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of France, Mr Michel Doucin, on Tuesday, when he visited
First All-English Album Released By Lao-American Birdie Xaphakdy: Underground Pop Xposed (VOA)
US-born Birdie or Souphak Xaphakdy wants desperately to make it in the mainsteam of the American music and entertainment world. The 19-year old, self-made artist of Lao descent grew up in the small town of Magnolia,
Tape: Hunter First Lied About [Hmong] Shooting (LR)
Prosecutors used a tape-recorded interview to show jurors that a white hunter accused of killing a Hmong immigrant initially lied about their confrontation in the woods. The hunter, James Nichols first claimed an unknown gunman shot him without mentioning they had fought or that he had shot back, according
More stories about Laos from other sources
... US Grants $26,821 to Laos National Museum (VOA)
... Laos woodwork export up in first 9 months (People's Daily)
... Laos: Irrigation systems to be repaired for dry season crops (VT)
... Laos: Students prepare for National Teachers' Day (VT)
... Exhibit Gives In-Depth Look at Hmong Culture (WKBT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 03, 2007



Lessons in Laos (Sun Star/Stuff)
As I was travelling through Laos, an impoverished "communist democracy" in the heart of South-East Asia, I read of a volunteering opportunity on an organic farm just outside the backpackers mecca of Vang Vieng, north of the capital, Vientiane. On the face of it, the outfit seemed worthwhile.
Key suspect for murder held in Laos (Nation)
Police arrested another suspect yesterday for a high-profile murder who was on the run in Laos. Prakob Seenak, 29, is wanted for the killing of Bio Clinic customer Raweewan Setarat on September 13, who was suing plastic surgeon Dr Phaisal Hengsawas for malpractice. Among the three suspects
Thailand to sign power purchase agreements with Laos (TNA)
Thailand will surely sign agreements to purchase power from Laos after the Asian Development Bank (ADB) gives a sign of loan approval for power grids' construction to the Laotian government," according to Kraisi Karnasuta, governor of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT).
Laos FM: Laos Continues to Reduce Poverty Rate and Slash and Burn Agriculture (VOA)
In his speech to the 62nd General Assembly at the UN headquarters in New York on October 1, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR, Thongloun Sisoulith, discussed world situations and boasted his
Vientiane to regulate private school fees (VientianeTimes)
Vientiane Education Department will soon be regulating private school fees, after public complaints relating to the significant disparities between the fees charged at different schools. Department Director Mr Vandy Phommabouth said on Monday that education managers around the capital city had agreed
Former boss testifies hunter 'hated' Hmong immigrants (KSTP)
A white hunter accused of killing a Hmong immigrant told his boss two months before that he "hated" Hmong and wished he had killed one, his former boss testified Wednesday. James Nichols, 29, of Peshtigo, is accused of shooting and stabbing Cha Vang, 30, of Green Bay, after the two got into a dispute
More stories about Laos from other sources
... More choices offered in city buses (VT)
... Luang Namtha bans pork from China (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 02, 2007



China top Laos investor last year (DPA/Bangkok Post)
Chinese companies accounted for 41 per cent of the total foreign direct investment approved in communist Laos in the fiscal year that ended last month, Radio Vientiane said Tuesday. Laos approved a total of 117 investments worth 1.1 billion dollars for the year, state-run radio reported in
Chinese firm to build power plant in Laos next year (XinhuaNet)
China Southern Power Grid plans to begin work on the Nam Tha 1 hydroelectric project in Laos' northern Bokeo province early next year, Lao newspaper Vientiane Times reported Tuesday. Capitalized at 65.7 billion kip (some 340 million U.S. dollars), the 168-MW power plant is scheduled to
Laos: Enforcement of State Inspection Law Will Improve Government (VOA)
Lao authorities express confidence that the imminent enforcement of state inspection laws, recently approved by the National Assembly, will improve work efficiency and accountability in all levels of the government.
UNESCO to review Luang Prabang's World Heritage status (VientianeTimes)
UNESCO will send officials to Luang Prabang next month to see whether the town still warrants its World Heritage status, according to a senior official. The head of the Luang Prabang Heritage Office, Ms Manivone
Laos Stresses the Urgency to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (VOA)
More than 150 nations and 80 heads of state and governments attended an unprecedented summit on climate change at the United Nations headquarters in New York this year, making it the highest-level meeting on climate change
Hmong in U.S.: Lawyers argue self-defense in Wis. hunter’s trial (AP/MSNBC or IHT)
A white hunter who killed a Hmong immigrant during a dispute in the woods was motivated in part by prejudice & did not act in self-defense, a prosecutor told jurors Tuesday. In opening statements, Assistant Attorney General Don
More stories about Laos from other sources
... PM praises Pakngum district's achievements (VT)
... Experts debate civil society, government partnerships (VT)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA




October 01, 2007



The Nam Tha dam in Laos (New Mandala)
A Chinese company is currently intending to build a hydroelectric dam on the Nam Tha river in northwestern Laos (other dams are being planned on the Nam Ou, also with Chinese funds). The project is called Nam Tha 1, which means maybe that there will be more dams in the near future(?).
Sikhottabong holds traditional boat race (VientianeTimes)
Residents from four villages of Sikhottabong district enjoyed their annual traditional boat racing festival in Dankham village on Saturday. Twenty teams, five each from Sisomseun, Kaoliew, Sikhay and Dankham villages, took part in the race, which has been a Lao village tradition for many years, often held
Hmong in U.S.: Wausau Police Officer Expected In Court On Attempted Murder Charge (WYOW)
Wausau police officer Chueng Lee is expected in Shawano County Court Monday on charges of trying to kill his estranged wife. Lee was expected to be released from a Green Bay hospital over the weekend, and immediately
More stories about Laos from other sources
... Laos, Vietnam praise cooperation development (VT)
... Hmong in U.S.: Race hangs over squirrel hunter's murder trial (CNN)
... Other stories from VientianeTimes  Need Subscription
... Other stories from Laos NA

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