Upgraded ASEAN-China Free Trade Pact stalled

13 Sept 14:26 Key points summarised by AI

The long-awaited upgrade to the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA 3.0) is stalled due to unresolved differences on trade and investment.
Key disagreements center on market access for goods, preventing a 'meaningful package' for the agreement's upgrade.
Despite being a priority under Lao chairmanship, an announcement at the upcoming 27th ASEAN-China Summit has been postponed.
Separately, ASEAN and China are exploring cooperation in e-commerce, focusing on capacity building and promoting cross-border collaboration.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.