A/HRC/14/37 508. China noted the Islamic Republic of Iran’s acceptance of many recommendations and the measures being taken to implement them. China welcomed the many measures taken by Iran to promote economic, social and cultural rights, cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue. China noted Iran’s campaign against illiteracy, and the work in the areas of health, education and protection of social rights, and the significant progress being made. China fully understood Iran’s difficulties as a developing country, particularly the challenges concerning the promotion and protection of human rights. China was convinced that, thanks to the joint efforts of the Government and the people of Iran, and with the support of the international community, Iran would scrupulously implement the recommendations. 509. Pakistan welcomed the Islamic Republic of Iran’s resolve to accelerate its efforts to further promote and protect the human rights of its citizens. Iran had accepted 123 recommendations during the Working Group session, which confirmed the importance that Iran attached to the universal periodic review process. Pakistan also noted that Iran had expressed its readiness to establish a national human rights institution in full compliance with the Paris Principles, stating that an early operationalization of such an institution could help Iran to improve its human rights system. Pakistan was confident that Iran would take all the steps necessary to ensure the protection of the rights of its citizens in accordance with its laws. 510. Algeria noted that the Islamic Republic of Iran had received 188 recommendations, of which 123 were immediately accepted, including three made by Algeria. In the spirit of the fraternity, dialogue and mutual respect that prevailed in the Council, Algeria understood Iran’s attitude with regard to the recommendations not accepted. It noted that, despite the difficulties faced by Iran in this transitional period, like in other emerging democracies, and despite the racial, religious and cultural diversity, Iranian society had managed to live in peace and social harmony. It highlighted Iran’s progress and encouraged it to continue along those lines. 511. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea noted with appreciation the policies and efforts of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran aimed at improving living conditions and at developing the sociopolitical and judicial system, which would enhance the promotion and protection of human rights of all people. It also noted that Iran had accepted a large number of recommendations, and had been taking a series of measures to implement them. Iran had been making progress in the promotion and protection of human rights in spite of all forms of difficulties and challenges, including the political pressure and sanctions imposed by foreign forces. 512. Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) was pleased by the Islamic Republic of Iran’s cooperation with the universal periodic review, highlighting the broad consultation undertaken for its national report. It noted Iran’s success in the review process, despite the difficulties it faced. Iran had been subjected to a siege by the most hostile imperial foreign power to repeated and unfair sanctions for political motives, under constant threat of aggression, and demanded respect for sovereignty and self-determination. It welcomed Iran’s replies and its support for most recommendations, highlighting its achievements in health, medical attention and social policies. 513. Cuba welcomed the Islamic Republic of Iran’s engagement with the universal periodic review and the positive actions taken. It highlighted the strategic plan for development that addressed job creation, education, health, social security and the right to adequate housing and cultural rights. It highlighted the space allocated for culture and sport, as well as the access to primary medical assistance by more than 95 per cent of the population. It noted all achievements, despite the impact of unilateral coercive measures imposed on the country, and that its actions rejected its commitment to human rights for all. 124 GE.12-17781