HIV Prevention: In Oudomxay, 264 female sex workers were tested and 12 were HIV-positive, prompting calls to expand voluntary testing, early treatment access, and prevention services for key populations. Hospital Oversight: Laos’ Health Ministry temporarily suspended services at BLL Hospital after social media allegations of illegal organ transplants, with an inspection committee tasked to verify operations and report publicly. Methanol Poisoning Diplomacy: Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong met Lao officials to demand a transparent, serious investigation into the 2024 Vang Vieng methanol deaths of Holly Morton-Bowles and Bianca Jones, after charges against a distillery owner were seen as insufficient. Tourist Safety Alerts: The UK and other governments have issued methanol travel warnings for multiple holiday destinations, including Laos, as families push for stronger prevention and accountability. Workforce Planning: The Education and Sports Ministry reviewed a draft resolution on developing high-quality human resources, flagging gaps in education reform and remote-area teacher incentives, plus health and skills not keeping pace with change. Wildlife Rescue: Twenty-seven moon bears were rescued from an illegal bile farm in Laos and moved to a sanctuary enclosure in Luang Prabang for recovery and rehabilitation.