SE Asia a haven or hazard amid global turmoil?
Almost a quarter of a century ago, Southeast Asia was considered a hotspot of political and economic global risk.
Asian news from city Vientiane
ASEAN members at odds over how to resolve Myanmar crisis
VIENTIANE -- The Association of Southeast Asian Nations has been struggling to ease strains in its relations with the military regime in Myanmar, even as the country is hopeful of restoring normal ties with the regional bloc.
ASEAN ministers seek Myanmar breakthrough with 'troika' model
MANILA/JAKARTA -- Foreign ministers from Southeast Asian countries are convening in Laos this week for a series of meetings as the shadow of regional instability, underscored by civil unrest in Myanmar and tensions in the South China Sea, looms large.
Thailand's new rail links carry hope for expanded Chinese trade
VIENTIANE/SINGAPORE -- Thailand's national railway opened a new passenger service to Laos this month, the latest addition to an expanding Southeast Asian rail network aimed at increasing cross-border traffic of people and goods with China.
Myanmar crisis pushes Asian meth seizures to new highs
VIENTIANE -- The spread of illegal drugs in Asia is intensifying as conflict in Myanmar fuels greater distribution across borders, driving the amount of methamphetamine seized in East and Southeast Asia last year to a record high.