A/HRC/31/11 108. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela highlighted the adoption of the national strategy for the development of women and the decree on free and compulsory education. 109. Viet Nam noted progress regarding children’s rights, women, persons with disabilities and human rights education. 110. Yemen welcomed the ratification by Oman of most international human rights instruments and its efforts in promoting the rights of women, children, and persons with disabilities. 111. Afghanistan commended the measures aimed at eradicating illiteracy and ensuring there is no quality gap in education between males and females. 112. Algeria noted the adoption of and amendments to legislation on the judiciary and the fight against corruption. It welcomed the intention of Oman to adopt policies regarding children, women, workers and persons with disabilities. 113. Argentina congratulated Oman for its national strategy for children and the increase in the enrolment of women and girls in all levels of education. It expressed concern about the lack of free compulsory education for all. 114. Australia commended the progress of Oman in providing access to education for women and girls. It was concerned at the restrictions to freedom of expression and assembly. 115. Azerbaijan appreciated the establishment of the ministerial steering committee and executive working group aimed at enabling Oman to fulfil its commitments vis-à-vis human rights mechanisms. 116. Cuba highlighted the progress made by Oman in its health-care system and the guarantee of universal access to quality education. 117. Bangladesh expressed appreciation for the adoption of laws and regulations to develop the labour market in a manner consistent with national requirements and international labour standards. 118. Bhutan noted the steps taken by Oman to address the rights of all children through the promulgation of the children’s act. It also expressed appreciation for the policy of providing universal education. 119. Brazil praised Oman for providing financial contributions to OHCHR. It encouraged Oman to ensure that its National Human Rights Commission complied with the Paris Principles. 120. India commended Oman for its achievements in health and education, and encouraged it to continue to take additional measures to promote gender equality. 121. Burundi congratulated Oman for the measures taken to ensure the independence of the judiciary, and for its policies on free education and human rights education. 122. Canada welcomed efforts to strengthen the participation of women during the Shura Council elections and the establishment of a committee to monitor the compliance of Oman with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. It expressed concern at limits imposed on freedom of opinion and expression. 123. Chad noted the legislation adopted and measures taken by Oman, such as the nationality law, the labour law, the inclusion of human rights in policies and programmes, and the provision of free and compulsory education. 124. 12 Chile expressed concern about discrimination against women in Oman.