World AI Governance: Twenty-nine countries signed an agreement in Shanghai to create the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO), with Laos among the founding members, as China’s Xi Jinping urged AI to be a “symphony of global collaboration” and promised 5,000 AI research/training opportunities for developing nations. Methanol Poisoning Justice: Australia says it is “deeply frustrated and bitterly disappointed” that Laos is expected to file only lesser charges over the 2024 Vang Vieng methanol poisoning deaths of two Australian teens, Bianca Jones and Holly Morton-Bowles, with families calling the likely penalties “unacceptable.” Diplomatic Pressure: Canberra has summoned the Laos ambassador and sent a special envoy to press for stronger charges and accountability. Sports (Regional): Laos will face Cambodia in the AFF Women’s Cup semi-finals after Cambodia topped Group B, setting up a key match on July 19. Public Safety/Drugs: Lao police arrested two nationals in a cross-border heroin case linked to a Thai Airways flight attendant’s arrest in Australia, with suspects to be prosecuted in Laos.