A/HRC/11/L.10 page 107 been achieved under a cruel blockade. Cuba contributed to the improvement of human rights through international solidarity and was committed to human rights, as was reflected in the 60 recommendations accepted. 431. Organización de solidaridad de los pueblos de África, Asia y America, in a joint statement with the Indian Movement Tupaj Amaru and the World Peace Council, noted that Cuba enjoyed extensive respect at the international level, having defended its self-determination and independence. It referred to Cuba’s cooperation and solidarity with other peoples, unlike those who looted and destroyed the planet, referring to Operation Milagro. In the area of education, 3.5 million people had been taught to read in 24 countries. 432. The China NGO Network for International Exchanges noted Cuba’s programme for social justice and equality. It welcomed Cuba’s tireless efforts to improve the living standards of its people and its active participation in international cooperation on human rights. It welcomed the positive attitude of Cuba towards the universal periodic review and its cooperation with the Council. It recommended that Cuba take more concrete measures for the full implementation of its obligations and commitments, and continue to participate actively in international cooperation on human rights. 433. The China Society for Human Rights Studies welcomed the priority given by Cuba to human rights and its significant achievements, especially in the field of education, health and food, despite the unjust blockade. It encouraged Cuba to share its experience in the right to health, in particular the primary, maternal and childcare programmes and HIV/AIDS control programmes. It recommended that Cuba continue to participate in international cooperation on human rights and provide other developing countries with medical and educational assistance. 434. Centrist Democratic International and Freedom House noted that the ratification of two international covenants on human rights was still pending. They stated that there were hundreds of political prisoners and prisoners of conscience in Cuba, many of whom were sick and not receiving medical attention. They stated that 21 deaths in prison, more than 500 arbitrary arrests and 26 cases of imprisonment of human rights defenders had been reported, and that 2 individuals had been subjected to intimidation for having submitted reports for the universal periodic review.