A/HRC/15/5 of ensuring unity and equality among all ethnic groups and of protecting their rights, customs and cultures. 67. Nepal noted achievements in terms of maintaining political stability and social harmony in a multi-ethnic society. Nepal welcomed the adherence of Laos to the rule of law, characterized by the separation of powers. It noted the country’s commitment to promoting human rights and its compliance with international human rights instruments, as well as its willingness to cooperate with special procedures and other human rights mechanisms. 68. Egypt welcomed the establishment of inter-agency mechanisms to promote human rights. It welcomed the implementation of the national strategy for the advancement of women (2006-2010) and the adoption and implementation of policies and strategies relating to the rights of children, which had increased the amount of attention accorded to the protection of children from abuse, child labour, sexual exploitation and trafficking. 69. The United Kingdom noted with satisfaction that Laos was considering signing the Convention against Torture and acceding to other human rights conventions. It asked what time frame was being considered for their ratification. It expressed concern at the repatriation of more than 4,000 Hmong from Thailand and asked Laos to ensure that international humanitarian organizations, including UNHCR, and the diplomatic community were allowed access. 70. Mexico highlighted the ratification by Laos of most of the core human rights treaties and expressed the hope that the Convention against Torture and the Convention against Enforced Disappearance would soon be ratified. Mexico recognized efforts to eradicate poverty and improve health services and asked for further information about measures to create an adequate environment for civil society and women’s groups, as recommended by CEDAW. 71. Canada expressed concern at reported restrictions on freedom of speech and on the Hmong repatriated from Thailand to Laos in 2009. It applauded the leadership shown by Laos on the issue of cluster munitions and the planned hosting of the first meeting of States parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions. It also applauded the adoption of the decree on the registration of domestic associations, which would allow for the development of civil society. 72. Malaysia commended Laos for its commitment to socio-economic development, demonstrated through its investment in poverty eradication, economic growth and human resource development. It considered that its focus in critical areas such as education, health and gender equality would have a positive impact on human rights, and it made a number of recommendations. 73. Armenia noted the cooperation of Laos with United Nations institutions, including human rights treaty bodies and special procedures, such as the Special Rapporteur on Freedom and Belief. In that regard, Armenia observed with satisfaction statements in the national report indicating that Laos was considering issuing invitations to other special rapporteurs. 74. The Philippines noted the establishment of inter-agency mechanisms devoted to the implementation of human rights treaties, which demonstrated the commitment of the Government to comply with its human rights obligations. It commended the establishment of a National Human Rights Research Centre. The Philippines noted measures to assist persons with disabilities, many of whom had been victims of landmines. 75. The Maldives congratulated Laos on measures taken to promote access to health care, especially for persons living in remote areas, and for war victims and persons with 11