MFN could help rescue Laos's troubled textile industry by reducing duties in its biggest market. Textiles and garments are Laos's second-largest export category after wood products. In general, however, Laos has few options in tackling major problems like rampant inflation, which has made even food very expensive. A return to old-style socialism seems out of the question but recent government attempts to assert control are chilling reminders of a past most businessmen thought was gone for good. We want to counterbalance the influence of China.
Most countries conduct bilateral or trilateral military exercises with one another.