A/HRC/14/17 38. India appreciated Egypt’s efforts to strengthen human rights and noted that it is consolidating its multi-party democracy and plans to lift the state of emergency. It also recognized achievements in the domain of economic, social and cultural rights. India asked about measures to address the impact of structural adjustment policies and the global economic crisis. India encouraged Egypt to continue to strengthen its developmental efforts for religious minorities and non-denominational religious groups. 39. Cuba asked Egypt to comment on the challenges it faces regarding the right to development. It also requested information about the impact of the economic and financial crisis on the right to work, as well as measures undertaken to promote employment. Cuba made recommendations. 40. Indonesia noted with appreciation the frank and open approach of the national report towards the issues and challenges encountered by Egypt to ensure enjoyment of human rights. Indonesia noted Egypt’s responsiveness to the issue of high illiteracy rate. Indonesia enquired how Egypt plans to follow up the recommendations of universal periodic review. Indonesia made recommendations. 41. Jordan welcomed Egypt’s efforts to reinforce the legislative and institutional framework for human rights. The delegation noted progress in promoting gender equality and increased opportunities for women’s public and political participation. Jordan made a recommendation. 42. France took note that the Emergency Law will be lifted once the new antiterrorism law will be adopted. It welcomed the commitment of Egypt to amend its Penal Code relating to the definition of torture. France noted that a high numbers of crimes remain punishable by the death penalty. France made recommendations. 43. Belarus noted that Egypt paid special attention to combating child labour, among others. It welcomed Egypt’s strong policy on combating human trafficking. Belarus indicated that the Russian Federation endorsed its statement. Belarus made a recommendation. 44. Malaysia acknowledged socio-economic improvements. and asked the delegation to elaborate on the activities and programmes under "gender issues" in the economic and social development plan for 2007-2012. Malaysia made recommendations. 45. Kuwait, as referred to in paragraph 27 of the present report, stated that the Egyptian report has shown the accomplishments achieved in the field of human rights and underlined the establishment of the human rights institutional framework. Kuwait made recommendations. 46. Azerbaijan welcomed the cooperation of Egypt with different human rights mechanisms and special procedures of the Human Rights Council. It further asked how the government will guarantee the right to health, education and food for the poorest sectors. Azerbaijan made a recommendation. 47. Lao People’s Democratic Republic noted Egypt’ accession to all UN human rights treaties, progress made in promoting human rights culture and strengthened capacity of Egypt to meet its obligations in human rights. It appreciated Egypt’s responsiveness to challenges and problems its citizens face in enjoyment of their rights. Lao People’s Democratic Republic made recommendations. 48. Norway expressed appreciation for Egypt’s active participation in the UN Human Rights machinery and emphasized its role as a bridge-builder in the Durban Review Conference. It also stressed that 64 seats of the People's Assembly are reserved for women in this year's parliamentary elections. Norway concluded with reference to concerns raised regarding the draft anti-terrorism law. Norway made recommendations. 7