Zen of Galmpton! (24.8.2035)

Here we are. Zen is Ch’an in reverse – which is good as perception is the wrong way around. Turn it the right way around – and Zen becomes Ch’an the right way around. Not always an easy task – like catching a steam train whilst it is obscured by it’s own smoke. What a joy such contradictions are. They exist to test our perception and determination. As such, nothing else matters. We all look up – and we all look down – just like every koan (gong-an) you may have viewed. Still, none of it matters if you cannot lay it all down. None of it matters at all.

The ceremony to proclaim the recognition of the Annamite Range–Ho Chi Minh Trail (on the Lao side) as a national historical heritage

Lao People’s Democratic Republic – Ho Chi Minh Trail Recongised as “National Treasure”! (22.8.2025)

The survey identified 18 locations along the trail as historic heritage sites that bear testimony to the shared struggle, solidarity, and friendship between Laos and Vietnam during their respective national liberation movements.

Maj. Gen. Vongsone highlighted that the Ho Chi Minh Trail through Laos was not only a vital transport and supply route of strategic military importance, but also served as a strategic stronghold and base that significantly contributed to Laos’ struggle, the national liberation movement of the Vietnamese people in the South, and the revolutionary struggle of the Cambodian people, ultimately leading to victory over foreign aggressors and the liberation of Southern Vietnam.

He further emphasized that the section of the Ho Chi Minh Trail running through Laos also served as a vital supply route for the front lines in Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Today, it stands as a symbol of shared struggle and the enduring solidarity between the peoples of Laos and Vietnam.

Western POWs Were Also Victims of Japanese Imperialism!

China: Lurch to Right Paints Japan as “Victim” of WWII! (17.8.2025)

Earlier this month, Hiroshima and Nagasaki held their annual atomic bombing commemorations. From Ishiba to local officials and citizens, speeches focused overwhelmingly on Japan’s suffering under nuclear attack, with little mention of Japan’s wartime aggression abroad. In Nagasaki, residents interviewed stressed the horrors of the bombings but rarely acknowledged Japan’s role as an aggressor.

The emphasis has shifted public perception. An NHK poll found only 35 percent of Japanese now see the war as one of aggression, compared with 52 percent in a 1994 survey.

In contrast, 67 percent of respondents said they “still cannot forgive” the atomic bombings, up 18 percentage points from a decade ago.

The Youth Hold the Future in Their Hands!

Laos: “If Youth are Empowered to Lead – Real Change Follows!” (13.8.2025)

“By first understanding our rights and choices in life, and knowing that our feelings are valid even if we are unsure or afraid, young people can transform from passive to active participants in life,” he says. Through peer education, social media content, and youth-led activities, Anan has taken on the role of mentor, guiding others through similar processes of discovery and empowerment. He sees voice as central to agency. “By finding our voice, we can contribute and be heard when decisions are made about our futures.”

“United Against Human Trafficking: Safe and Legal Migration Protects Us All.”

Laos: Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare Marks “International Day Against Human Trafficking”! (11.8.2025)

This year’s observance aimed to raise public awareness and intensify efforts to prevent human trafficking, emphasizing the role of safe and legal migration in protecting vulnerable populations.

Human trafficking continues to evolve, with traffickers adopting new and increasingly deceptive methods to exploit victims particularly women and children. Current data shows that one in three victims worldwide is a child, with girls being disproportionately affected. Fraud, manipulation, and coercion remain common tools used by traffickers to lure victims into exploitation.

In response, public education remains a cornerstone of prevention. Awareness campaigns help communities especially women, children, and at risk groups recognize and avoid trafficking schemes. These initiatives are essential in building informed and resilient communities that can resist exploitation.

The Post of Dalai Lama Has Never Been Independent!

China: Central Government has Final say on Reincarnation of Dalai Lama! (6.8.2025)

The reincarnation of living Buddhas follows strict religious rituals and historical conventions, and the legitimacy of the title of the Dalai Lama in fact originates from the central government, Gama Cedain, chairman of Xizang, said during a news conference held by the State Council Information Office on the region’s economic and social development achievements since it was established 60 years ago.

On several occasions in the past, the 14th Dalai Lama has said he might reincarnate while still alive. At other times, he has said he will personally choose his successor.

In July, he released the so-called “Statement Affirming the Continuation of the Institution of Dalai Lama”, personally appointing a trust to recognize the future reincarnation.

“Reincarnation has never been solely determined by the Dalai Lama himself,” Gama Cedain said. “The reincarnation of the Dalai Lama must strictly follow the principle of ‘carrying out the search domestically, drawing lots from a golden urn, and gaining approval from the central government’, while complying with the country’s laws and regulations.”

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