A/HRC/41/15 34. Australia noted that women continued to be absent from senior peace and security roles in Cyprus. It also noted reports of ongoing discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons. 35. Azerbaijan remained deeply concerned by the widespread use of lengthy detention of asylum seekers as well as victims of trafficking. It stated that overcrowding and cases of torture in prisons remained to be addressed. 36. Bahrain commended the new National Action Plan for Gender Equality (2018– 2021). 37. Belarus noted the adoption of laws to combat human trafficking and sexual exploitation of children, and the implementation of new national plans, including on gender equality and on combating domestic violence. 38. Bhutan noted the ratification of key international human rights instruments and commended Cyprus for taking a proactive role in promoting cultural rights and the protection of cultural heritage. 39. Brazil commended the gender-sensitive approach of Cyprus regarding the role of women in conflict resolution, post-conflict rehabilitation, reconciliation and sustainable peace, and encouraged Cyprus to continue efforts towards the elaboration of its national action plan on women, peace and security. 40. Bulgaria commended measures to address the destruction and trafficking of cultural heritage worldwide and in Europe, and appreciated the priority attached to the rights of children and persons with disabilities. 41. Canada welcomed the positive steps taken by Cyprus to advance gender equality, including creating a Strategic Action Plan for Gender Equality and a technical committee to implement the plan. 42. Chile acknowledged the ratification of numerous international treaties on human rights, following up on the recommendations accepted in the second cycle of the universal periodic review. 43. China commended the active implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and measures against destruction and illicit trafficking of cultural heritage. It welcomed implementation of the National Action Plan for Gender Equality (2018–2021). 44. Croatia commended efforts at prison reform. It stated that there was room for improvement in the areas of prevention of violence against women, including trafficking of women and girls, and equality between men and women. 45. Cuba noted the various initiatives carried out to implement the recommendations made during the previous review, including the updating of legislation, policies and national plans. 46. Denmark stated that indigenous peoples were among the most marginalized populations around the world, often facing discrimination and exploitative labour conditions, which violated their human rights. 47. The Dominican Republic appreciated the efforts made by Cyprus in the ratification of new international instruments to guarantee better protection of human rights in the country. 48. Ecuador noted the implementation of the new National Action Plan for Gender Equality (2018–2021). 49. Egypt complimented the pioneering role of Cyprus in combating the destruction of archaeological international heritage and welcomed the National Action Plan for Gender Equality (2018–2021). 50. El Salvador welcomed the completion of the voluntary national review for the 2030 Agenda, as well as the commitments undertaken by Cyprus to advance the Agenda’s implementation. 5