Laos

Move is part of a broader goal to expand investment, tourism between the two nations.

Construction can begin, but compensation for villagers remains unresolved.

Opening the taps sooner would have helped downstream drought.

Citizens say good riddance, but that authorities need to go after ringleaders to really clamp down.

Villagers search for gold, mostly at night, amid widespread poverty.

Residents are fearful, but say that criticism and expressing opinions can help in governing.