A/HRC/24/16 81. Viet Nam expressed its appreciation of the State’s commitments and commendable contributions to the UPR. 82. Yemen welcomed the ratification of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (CPED) and new legal rules to expand human rights legislation. 83. Zambia acknowledged the ratification of international instruments and the achievement of some MDGs. Zambia requested Cuba to continue its reform process. 84. Zimbabwe praised Cuba for ensuring a balance between civil and political rights and social, economic and cultural rights, notwithstanding the embargo. 85. Algeria welcomed the remarks made by Cuba in the introduction of its national report. 86. Angola commended achievements regarding MDGs, social and legal reforms and the lifting of restrictions on trips abroad. 87. Mexico recognized the progress made despite the unilateral economic blockade, and noted the elimination of the exit permit. 88. Armenia commended education improvements, including access for students with special needs. 89. Australia welcomed progress in overseas travel. It expressed concern with regard to restrictions on Internet access as well as reports on short-term detention. 90. Austria commended positive measures taken. It expressed concern regarding cases of intimidation, arrests and imprisonment of journalists and members of the political opposition. 91. Azerbaijan commended the State’s cooperation with the United Nations human rights system, and efforts to achieve the MDGs. 92. Bahrain noted achievements and encouraged Cuba to continue its efforts towards the development of Cuban society. 93. Bangladesh commended the success Cuba had achieved in the health sector and welcomed economic reforms. 94. Barbados commended improvements made by Cuba and urged the international community to support its efforts. 95. Belarus commended progress made in human rights. 96. Belgium welcomed the Cuban delegation. 97. Benin welcomed efforts made on behalf of the elderly, persons with disabilities and women’s rights and encouraged the abolition of the death penalty. 98. Bhutan commended activities carried out by Cuba in the areas of education and health, and encouraged Cuba to continue its cooperation with United Nations human rights mechanisms. 99. The Plurinational State of Bolivia welcomed the delegation. 100. Brazil recognized advances, including in the area of migration reform, made despite the fact that Cuba faced a blockade incompatible with human rights. 101. Brunei Darussalam commended the commitment of Cuba to promote the rights of the elderly. 8