A/HRC/11/22* international level aimed at strengthening the United Nations human rights machinery, with a view in particular to contribute towards making it function on the basis of nonpoliticization, respectful dialogue and good-faith cooperation; continue its laudable efforts to achieve the fullest enjoyment by the people of economic, social and cultural rights with a view to ensuring the fulfilment of the MDGs; and continue promoting initiatives in defence of international solidarity at the relevant United Nations organs with a view to promoting human rights and solidarity among all nations and peoples of good will. 81. Tunisia commended the efforts Cuba made in the area of human rights, and more specifically in the sphere of economic, social and cultural rights. It noted that illiteracy was eliminated and that Cuba has actively helped other countries in eliminating it. Thousands of students from all origins have benefited from high quality education in Cuban universities. On the right to health, Tunisia described as a success the Operation Miracle, and praised the solidarity based program for ophthalmologic surgery Cuba has provided to more than a million people. Tunisia congratulated Cuba on its cooperation with the United Nations human rights mechanisms and on its support for international cooperation in human rights matters, based on a frank dialogue and mutual respect. 82. France welcomed the good results achieved by Cuba in the field of education and health and asked the Cuban for the precise timetable envisaged for the ratification of ICCPR and ICESCR. It enquired about the measures envisaged by Cuba to ensure in practical terms freedom of expression and information. France recommended that Cuba adopt the necessary measures to combat sexual exploitation and adopt a law providing a legal framework to protect minor from sexual exploitation. It also recommended that Cuba adopt a law guaranteeing freedom of movement within the territory in accordance with ICCPR, which Cuba has signed, repeal the system of permits to leave the territory, and consequently delete from the criminal code the crime of illegal departure from the territory. It recommended that Cuba issue a standing invitation to the Special Rapporteurs to visit the country. It also recommended that Cuba allow ICRC to have access to prisons and visit prisoners and ratify ICCPR and ICESCR as soon as possible. 83. The Philippines stated that Cuba has been a champion of social justice, at the national and international levels, and lauded its many achievements in the promotion of economic, social and cultural rights. It stressed that many countries could learn from Cuba’s progressive policies on education, health, employment and cultural rights. It commended Cuba’s initiatives on the right to food and the right to development, as well on its efforts to assist other countries in times of distress and natural disasters. The Philippines recommended that Cuba continue its actions, particularly through awareness-raising campaigns and public education programmes, to work towards the eradication of stereotypes associated with traditional roles of men and women in the family; and share its experiences, expertise, and good practices in the promotion and protection of the right to health, including initiatives in place with regard to public health and “health tourism”. 84. Jamaica welcomed Cuba’s signature of ICCPR and ICESCR and its ratification of a number of international instruments, including those targeting specific vulnerable groups such as CEDAW, CRC and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Jamaica noted that steady progress was made in addressing specific areas of concern, especially in the fields of education, employment and healthcare, and the attainment of MDGs. Jamaica encouraged the Government to continue to take measures to honour its human rights obligations and to advance the promotion and protection of human rights and freedoms. 85. Chile welcomed the visit of the Special Rapporteur on the right to food and the recent announcement of an invitation to the Special Rapporteur on torture. It recommended that Cuba (a) receive other thematic rapporteurs who so request. Chile was explicitly opposed to the trade embargo that affects the economic, social and cultural rights of the 14 GE.09-16273