A/HRC/18/2 464. Algeria noted Singapore’s achievements in economic and social development, which had had a positive impact on the enjoyment of human rights. It hoped that Singapore would continue its efforts to promote harmony between the different components of its diverse society. Algeria recalled its recommendations on the promotion of racial and religious tolerance and the advancement of women, and thanked Singapore for accepting its recommendations to ratify the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. At the same time, it requested a response concerning its recommendation on the ratification of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. 465. Thailand welcomed Singapore’s acceptance of a number of its recommendations, particularly those concerning migrant workers and trafficking. It commended Singapore’s efforts to protect the rights of vulnerable groups, noting in particular the increased budgetary allocations for the education of children with special needs. While some of Thailand’s recommendations on national human rights institutions and the Bangkok Rules did not enjoy the support of Singapore, Thailand hoped that Singapore would continue to strengthen its independent mechanisms and give due consideration to the needs of women prisoners. 466. Indonesia noted Singapore’s commitment to human rights and fundamental freedoms, which had contributed to prosperity, peace and stability in the region. It appreciated the acceptance of the recommendations made by Indonesia concerning the ratification of human rights instruments, the preservation of family institutions and religious tolerance, and the elimination of discrimination against women and trafficking in persons. It highlighted the enactment of laws against trafficking in persons and welcomed Singapore’s commitment to the well-being of migrant workers. 467. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic noted that Singapore had accepted a large number of recommendations and taken steps to implement them. It noted that Singapore’s multi-ethnic and multicultural society lived together peacefully, and appreciated Singapore’s efforts to further advance the lives and well-being of its people. It noted with appreciation the five fundamental principles governing Singapore’s policy on human rights, and commended Singapore’s cooperation with United Nations human rights mechanisms. 468. Myanmar appreciated Singapore’s constructive engagement with the universal periodic review and was pleased that it had accepted many recommendations, including Myanmar’s recommendation that it provide foreign workers with appropriate legal channels to work in the country. Myanmar commended Singapore’s commitment to strengthen interaction with human rights mechanisms, including through an invitation extended to the special procedures mandate holders. 469. Malaysia welcomed Singapore’s intention to accede to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and was pleased that Singapore had accepted all its recommendations. Malaysia was aware of the need for Singapore to be afforded the time and space necessary to continue improvements in the promotion and protection of human rights, and thanked Singapore for its constructive participation in the universal periodic review process. It wished Singapore well as it embarked on the implementation of accepted recommendations. 470. Cambodia noted Singapore’s commitment to human rights, its achievements in the areas of socioeconomic development, health services, education and housing, as well as in the promotion of the rights of women, children, persons with disabilities and the elderly. Cambodia welcomed Singapore’s cooperation with the international community in promoting and protecting human rights. It also highlighted Singapore’s policies aimed at GE.12-17756 147