Top News Headlines In Laos, Myanmar & Vietnam: June 16, 2025

By Vijian Paramasivam

LAOS

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1.POSITIONING TOURISM ON GLOBAL MAP -- VIENTIANE TIMES

Tourism-dependent Laos plans to develop the sector into a major revenue generator by upgrading infrastructures and adopting digital tools. Improving road access, upgrading facilities and introducing exciting activities for tourists will be given top priority.

2.FIFTH EMU TO ADD MORE CAPACITY ON LAO-CHINA ROUTE -- VIENTIANE TIMES

The fifth “Lane Xang” high-speed EMU (electric multiple unit) train arrived in Lao from China. It will modernise transport infrastructure and strengthen cross-border links to support the growing demand for passenger services on the Laos-China Railway route. 

MYANMAR 

1.INCREASING FOREST COVERAGE NATIONWIDE -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

Forest coverage reached 42.15 per cent and the government aims to increase it to 50 per cent. The focus will be on tree growth and the conservation of forests to minimise deforestation. About 20 million saplings will be distributed in this monsoon season. 

2.FILM CITY MAJOR CATALYST FOR INDUSTRY -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

The planned Film City Project in Yangon will be either funded by the Myanmar Motion Pictures Organisation’s funds, government loans or an adoption of a Public-Private Partnership model. Once completed the project will be a major boost for film production. 

VIETNAM

1.ASIAN JUNIOR WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIP BEGINS -- VIETNAMPLUS

Vietnam will host the U17 and U23 Asian Wrestling Championships 2025 from June 16 to 28. This is the first time Vietnam is hosting a major continental youth-level wrestling championship. More than 100 athletes from about 20 countries will participate.

2.VIETNAM-US TRADE TALKS ON TRACK -- VIETNAMPLUS 

The third round of negotiations between Vietnam and the United States regarding the Bilateral Agreement on Reciprocal Trade took place from June 9 to June 12. Negotiators successfully narrowed the gaps in all areas of concern. Future discussions will continue online.

-- BERNAMA