A/HRC/11/37 419. The Russian Federation stressed that the review of Cuba reflected the progress achieved and demonstrated the constructive and responsible approach of Cuba to international cooperation. Cuba remained a good example of respect for human rights, including economic, social and cultural rights. The Russian Federation paid tribute to the active role played by Cuba in the elaboration of the universal periodic review. It wished Cuba every success in the realization of its commitments and further progress in human rights, as would certainly be shown at the next cycle of the universal periodic review. 420. Bolivia (Plurinational State of) stressed that the international community recognized Cuba’s achievements, despite it being a developing country subjected to an unjust economic blockade and suffering from climate change. Cuba demonstrated solidarity with many peoples; instead of criticizing those that had chosen their destiny, it made human rights a reality in practice. During the review, it had recommended that Cuba share its experience in the fields of health and education. It congratulated Cuba on its participative and transparent approach to the universal periodic review. It called for the end of the blockade by the United States of America. 421. Uzbekistan thanked Cuba for the detailed reply provided on the recommendations, for its active participation in the universal periodic review, and commended it for the measures taken in the field of human rights. The review clearly demonstrated the achievements made, particularly with regard to gender equality, the protection of women and children, social protection, health care, the right to education, religious freedom and economic, social and cultural rights. Uzbekistan was convinced that Cuba would continue its efforts to implement the recommendations and its international human rights obligations. 422. Belarus stressed the responsive and constructive approach of Cuba during the review, which was held while unlawful sanctions were imposed on it. Belarus had recommended that Cuba continue its efforts to counter such unilateral measures. Belarus paid tribute to Cuba for its role in the Non-Aligned Movement, in promoting human rights and in strengthening the Council. It hoped that Cuba would continue to play its leading role in ending politicization of human rights issues. Belarus noted that Cuba had accepted its recommendation, as well as many others, which demonstrated Cuba’s genuine interest in human rights. 423. Sri Lanka stated that Cuba’s participation in the universal periodic review was a model. It paid tribute to Cuba’s active role in the Council and the way in which it fought against attempts to use human rights selectively and hypocritically. Cuba discharged its responsibilities under conditions of extreme external hostility. Cuba was a model for the realization of economic, social and cultural rights. Its action was not limited to collective rights, as demonstrated by Operation Milagro and the “Yes I Can” literacy programme. Sri Lanka saluted Cuba’s performance. 424. China stressed that Cuba was faced with enormous difficulties created by the embargo and had achieved outstanding achievements in the economic, political, social and cultural fields. Cuba had cooperated in a constructive manner with developing States and made important contributions to the human rights cause. A majority of States in the Working Group praised Cuba highly for its achievements. China noted that Cuba had replied to all questions raised during the review, including by China. China was convinced that Cuba would make every effort to attain the Millennium Development Goals. 425. Algeria stressed Cuba’s constructive approach, as demonstrated by its acceptance of 60 recommendations. Algeria underlined Cuba’s action for human rights, in particular the rights to development, food and peace, the promotion of cultural diversity, international cooperation and solidarity, and the right of peoples to self-determination. During the review, Algeria had welcomed Cuba’s commitment to human rights, despite the economic blockade, and encouraged Cuba to share its experience in the areas of health, education and GE.09-16766 123