The Executive Council of the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, in collaboration with relevant parties in Bokeo province, last week organises activities to mark the 38th International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26. The event was attended by representatives from the Provincial Public Security Command, the Zone’s Management Committee, businesspeople, and local vendors. During the event, young people from Laos, Myanmar and China toured an anti-drug exhibition centre, and a Cultural and Historical Museum in the Zone displaying models of traditional houses typical of the three countries. As part of the anti-drug theme, teachers explained the dangers of narcotics followed by a question-and-answer session about the harmful effects of drugs. In addition, a lecture on the dangers of drugs was given to further raise awareness about the negative effects of drug abuse. 

The government launches an initiative to spur climate-resilient food systems, with a focus on protecting vulnerable communities and promoting sustainable environmental practices. The project, supported by development partners, highlights Laos’ commitment to addressing climate-related challenges. The launch took place during a two-day national high-level meeting and inception workshop held last week in Vangvieng district, Vientiane province, marking the largest multi-stakeholder gathering of its kind since the recent formation of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

Chinese specialists assist Lao medical staff with high-frequency laser cataract surgery at the 103 Hospital in Vientiane. --Photo Lao National Radio

People living along the riverbank in Meun district, Vientiane province, carry their belongings to higher ground after their houses were flooded following days of heavy rain. District authorities, Red Cross staff and officials from the district’s Labour and Social Welfare Office are closely monitoring water levels in the area as rivers continue to rise.   --Photo Lao National Radio

Representatives from village savings groups in Xiengkhouang and Bolikhamxay provinces are expected to better manage their finances following a five-day training on the Cooperative Account System (beginner level) held recently in Vientiane. Supported by the Government of Korea through Community Credit Cooperatives and implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, the course aimed to strengthen fund management in rural communities for sustainable development. An official from the agriculture sector said at the closing ceremony that the establishment of village savings groups is key to rural development and poverty reduction. The initiative helps ensure each family has a stable income, enhanced production capacity, and long-term economic resilience, in line with national development goals.