A/HRC/17/7 33. Mauritania noted that Oman had taken major steps with regard to the promotion and protection of human rights and expressed its appreciation for Omani achievements and its continuing efforts in that regard. Mauritania was confident that Oman would continue on that path, with due regard to the values and customs which suited Omani society. 34. India acknowledged progress regarding women and children, and in the areas of health and education. It noted the significant reduction of infant and under-5 mortality rates and the increase in elected representation in Government. Efforts made to establish a legal infrastructure included the National Human Rights Commission and the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking. While noting measures in favour of domestic servants and temporary workers, India encouraged Oman to consider bringing them within the scope of the Labour Law, thereby ensuring their basic rights. 35. The Islamic Republic of Iran noted the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission, the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking and the National Committee for following up the implementation of CRC. It noted the outstanding progress of Oman in health, employment, welfare and education sectors. The Islamic Republic of Iran further noted effective measures for the promotion and protection of the persons with disabilities including the consultative centres for women, families and marriage guidance. 36. Canada noted the establishment of the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking and legislation regarding the rights of domestic migrant workers, and the care provided for persons with disabilities. It noted several challenges, including legislation limiting freedom of expression, particularly the Internet and the press, prevalence of discrimination and the lack of mechanisms of protection against domestic violence and forced marriage. The judiciary, though independent, remained subordinate to the executive and subject to its influence. 37. Sri Lanka highlighted progress in relation to women and children and in the fields of health and education. It noted that the Civil Service Law of 2004 guaranteed equal rights and duties for public sector employees without gender discrimination for both citizens and non-citizens. It welcomed the new Labour Law, which defined terms and conditions for expatriate workers in the private sector, and encouraged Oman to bring domestic workers under this law. It welcomed the signature by Oman of the memoranda of understanding with countries that supply labour and encouraged it to further strengthen implementation of this Ministerial Decision. 38. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela highlighted that the World Health Organization had listed Oman among the leading countries of the world in providing comprehensive primary health care and in terms of the effectiveness of the whole health system financed by the Government of up to 80 per cent. It also noted an increase in average life expectancy and a significant drop in the mortality rate. Concerning treatment of non-communicable diseases Oman guaranteed free health care from basic care through to tertiary health care, including rehabilitation and social inclusion. 39. Oman responded to questions and enquiries of Member States made during the interactive dialogue, noting that its legislation guaranteed the rights of all, in accordance with the Basic Law, and provided equality for all citizens before the law, while prohibiting discrimination between them. Omani legislation did not allow violence against women, guaranteed respect for women’s dignity and forbade behaviour which was not acceptable in Omani society, noting that such acts of violence were punishable under the Criminal Code and that appropriate remedies existed in the courts. Sexual harassment was also punishable under the appropriate provisions of the Criminal Code. 40. It was also noted that there was no discrimination with regard to political participation of women, who had the right to nominate themselves to be elected to the 7