A/HRC/17/4 21. The delegation stated that Rwanda did not recruit child soldiers. There were no armed groups in Rwanda therefore the issue of armed groups recruiting child soldiers in Rwanda does not arise. 22. In conclusion, the delegation pledged Rwanda’s determination to continue to build a democratic society and to play its role in all international engagements in which it may be called upon to serve. B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review 23. During the interactive dialogue, 48 delegations made statements. Statements which could not be delivered during the interactive dialogue due to time constraints have been posted on the extranet of the UPR site, if available.1 Many delegations commended Rwanda for its level of participation in the process, and for its consultative approach in the preparation of its national report. Recommendations made during the dialogue can be found in section II of the present report. 24. Algeria praised Rwanda’s reconciliation efforts, launched since 2002, and its efforts to promote economic, social and cultural rights. It noted Rwanda’s Vision 2020 plan and Poverty Reduction Strategy and applauded Rwanda’s efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). It made recommendations. 25. Egypt noted Rwanda’s recovery since the 1994 genocide, and also took note of Rwanda’s efforts in a number of areas, including addressing socio-economic challenges. Egypt also noted that Rwanda was on track to achieving the MDGs. Egypt commended Rwanda for its commitment to protect the rights of women, as well as for making protection of children’s rights a priority. It called upon the international community to extend the necessary assistance to Rwanda. Egypt made recommendations. 26. China noted with appreciation the adoption of Rwanda’s Vision 2020 plan, as well as its Poverty Reduction Strategy. It commended Rwanda for the progress made in poverty reduction, medical and health services, and education. China acknowledged the challenges and difficulties faced by Rwanda, and expressed its confidence in Rwanda’s progress. China made recommendations. 27. Japan noted with appreciation Rwanda’s achievements in post-conflict recovery, economic development and good governance. It noted with concern the discriminatory traditional practices against women in the family and in society, as well as the restrictions on freedom of expression, participation in political processes, and the media. Japan made recommendations. 28. Morocco welcomed the achievements of the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission that put Rwanda on the path of peace. It praised the central role given to the promotion and protection of human rights after the impact of the tragic events of 1994. Morocco noted with appreciation Rwanda’s progress towards attaining the objectives of the MDGs by 2015, and in the field of health, education and protection of vulnerable groups, especially women. Morocco mentioned that Rwanda had the world record for the highest number of women in Parliament. It made recommendations. 29. Brazil stated that, despite the atrocities committed, Rwanda has managed to rebuild its society and move towards reconciliation. Brazil acknowledged the progress made in the 1 6 The countries which could not take the floor were Angola, Argentina, the Congo, Costa Rica, Ireland, Israel, Kenya, Latvia, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Norway, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Uganda and Uruguay.