A/HRC/43/14 45. Togo welcomed efforts deployed in the area of human rights in recent years. 46. Tunisia praised the State’s commitment to the universal periodic review and its openness to various mechanisms of the Human Rights Council. 47. Turkey encouraged Iraq to take the necessary steps to meet the legitimate demands of protesters. 48. Ukraine welcomed reforms aimed at combating gender stereotypes and violence against women, although much remained to be done. 49. The United Arab Emirates welcomed strategies and plans of action aimed at preserving human dignity and ensuring social justice. 50. The United Kingdom expressed concern about the scale of security force violence in recent protests. 51. The United States affirmed that Iraq must uphold its obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law. 52. Uruguay expressed particular concerns regarding the most vulnerable communities. 53. Uzbekistan welcomed the signing of a number of international treaties and national plans of action. 54. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela welcomed the measures taken, in particular the adoption of national plans to combat poverty. 55. Viet Nam commended the State for its commitment in protecting human rights, especially the rights of vulnerable groups. 56. Yemen noted, inter alia, the establishment of a national committee for coordination and follow-up. 57. Afghanistan expressed appreciation for achievements made since the previous cycle, including the national human rights plans. 58. Albania stated that it welcomed the improvement of the legal framework, but remained concerned by the high number of orphaned children. 59. Algeria welcomed the plans focusing specifically on reducing poverty and combating violence against women. 60. Angola acknowledged the efforts by the Government in collaboration with UNAMI with respect to the stabilization of the country and protection of human rights. 61. Argentina made recommendations. 62. Australia recognized the State’s sacrifices in the territorial defeat of Da’esh, but remained concerned about human rights violations in Iraq. 63. Austria expressed deep concern about recent reports of violations of the right to life and excessive use of force. 64. Azerbaijan welcomed the adoption of policy documents and programmes related to human rights in the State. 65. Bahrain thanked the delegation of Iraq for the presentation of its national report and made recommendations. 66. Bangladesh took note of laws that were in line with the international human rights instruments. 67. Belarus noted the development of the institutional and legislative framework and the adoption of a number of national strategies to reduce poverty. 68. Belgium expressed solidarity with the Iraqi people, who were facing the terrible consequences of the fight against Da’esh. 69. Bhutan commended the State for its efforts to protect and promote human rights and for its adoption of the strategy to reduce violence against women. 5