A/HRC/13/4 selection for public officials. It urged the international community to assist Cambodia and made recommendations. 37. Morocco applauded measures to build institutional capacities and create a national human rights institution. Morocco cited the National Council on Ethnic and Demographic Issues as an example of how to instil the principle of tolerance and coexistence in a society and asked for additional information about the role of the Council in promoting minority rights. Morocco made recommendations. 38. Indonesia commended the establishment of the Cambodian Human Rights Committee and the Senate Complaints Commission, noting that these institutions were further strengthened through the Rectangular Strategy. Indonesia also noted the importance Cambodia attached to setting up adequate structures for the protection of vulnerable groups, expressed appreciation for the Government’s openness about the difficulties and challenges faced, and made a recommendation. 39. Spain noted Cambodia’s commitment to combat child prostitution and trafficking. Spain welcomed the abolition of the death penalty. It supported the reform and strengthening of Cambodia’s judiciary and highlighted efforts for protection of minors. It made recommendations. 40. Japan commended efforts for development and improvement of people’s lives. It was encouraged by and supported Cambodia’s efforts to protect and promote human rights and democracy. Japan appreciated progress made on the Khmer Rouge tribunal and the development of the domestic legal system. It made recommendations. 41. Pakistan noted Cambodia’s recent remarkable economic growth as well as the dividends of democracy Cambodia had started to receive, reflected in achievements in social, economic, political and cultural fields. Pakistan expressed appreciation for Cambodia’s ambitious strategies to promote and protect human rights. It enquired about Cambodia’s experience in reforming the legal and judicial system, and made recommendations. 42. Egypt noted progress in poverty reduction, ensuring the right to education and health, and upholding the rule of law through the reform of the judicial system, with a focus on guarding against impunity for past crimes. Egypt noted efforts to ensure gender equality and protect the rights of women and children, and sought more information on policies and strategies to attain social cohesion and the Rectangular Strategy. Egypt also put forward recommendations. 43. France regretted that steps taken to strengthen the rule of law fully guarantee neither the independence of judges, nor the right to a fair trial. As to the frequent lifting of the immunity of opposition parliamentarians, France asked about measures to ensure that freedom of expression complies with international standards. It noted a high degree of violence against women and girls despite legislation adopted. France made recommendations. 44. The Netherlands noted reports of corruption and political interference in the Extraordinary Chambers, and interference in the Constitutional Council and the Supreme Council. Taking note of efforts in the area of land ownership and reform, it cited reports of legally dubious land concessions, land-grabbing and forced evictions. It noted that a more equal distribution of wealth and opportunities would enhance economic, social and cultural rights. It welcomed the national strategic development plan and the educational strategic plan for 2006-2010, but noted public that expenditure stood at 3.5 per cent of GDP. The Netherlands made recommendations. 45. Sri Lanka expressed appreciation for the importance Cambodia attaches to economic, social and cultural rights while building a strong democracy that promotes and 8