A/HRC/WG.6/1/TUN/4 page 10 recent reform on the Press Code, information was requested on its impact on the freedom of expression and on the impact of education programmes in the dissemination of a culture of human rights. 27. Japan stressed that the image the delegation had of Tunisia was a country of great civilization and noted that his colleague in Tunisia, the Japanese Ambassador, had underlined that this was indeed the case: Tunisia is an ever more democratic society which is demonstrating major compliance with human rights in the Arab world. Japan further noted that the status of women was very high in Tunisia. He then put forward three questions. First, Japan, while acknowledging that combating terrorism was an urgent matter, asked how Tunisia intended to achieve this objective whilst complying with human rights. Second, Japan asked how Tunisia intended to continue to promote freedom of association and third, he requested information on how Tunisia intended to develop its relations with NGOs. Recognizing that H.E. Mr. Labidi, the Tunisian Ambassador in Geneva, is one of the most respectable and active ambassadors in Geneva, Japan expressed no doubt that he will have an important role to play in this regard given his major experience. Japan finally seized the opportunity to express the wish that Tunisia will continue its reforms. 28. The United Kingdom acknowledged the progress made at the national level especially laws reform in the area of economic, social and cultural rights as well as its political will to advance women rights. However, the United Kingdom was concerned about the restriction to freedom of expression and the requirement for registration by political parties and NGOs. It stressed that careful note was taken on the explanation given in Tunisia’s presentation but recommended that Tunisia give full consideration to reform these requirements. The United Kingdom also recommended that Tunisia set a date for the ratification of the Optional Protocol to CAT and strongly encourage the Government of Tunisia to work closely with international human rights bodies particularly regarding the follow-up of UPR recommendations. 29. Zambia welcomed the informative presentation and the national report. It also noted Tunisia’s human rights achievements and urged it to continue its efforts. The measures taken to ensure that media operate in an independent manner and that the freedom of expression and opinion is ensured were also highlighted. 30. The Syrian Arab Republic noted with interest the measures taken by Tunisia in the areas of health, education and the women’s rights. It requested more information on these sectors. It recommended that Tunisia pursue its achievements and its consolidated approach in the promotion and protection of all human rights including in the field of education, health and the promotion of the status of women. 31. Morocco noted the tangible advancement in the field of human rights and the implementation of, inter alia, the Paris Principles; the application of treaty bodies’ recommendations; the question of the diversity; access to housing for families; policy reforms and their positive effects on economic development; and the high level of schooling and protection of women’s rights. Morocco stressed Tunisia’s efforts to ensure religious and civilization specificities; the tolerant spirit demonstrated by Tunisia and its commitment towards further promoting and protecting human rights. It requested concrete examples of judicial ruling relating to the promotion and protection of human rights and information on measures taken to eliminate disparities in the health-care system and illiteracy.