A/HRC/16/11 for a more perfect union. By admitting the possibility of imperfection, new opportunities to improve are revealed – the ability to do this has been and continues to be a source of national strength. 7. The United States explained that it encourages the involvement of its civil society, and works through law-abiding executives, democratic legislatures and independent courts to make progress. The United States expressed pride in its accomplishments, recognized that there remains room for further progress and reiterated its commitment to principled engagement with the international system to advance human rights at home and abroad. B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review 8. Cuba made recommendations. 9. The Bolivarian Republic of Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela expressed the hope that President Obama would make a commitment to human rights. 10. The Islamic Republic of Islamic Republic of Iran expressed concern over the situation of human rights and systematic violations committed by the United States at both the national and international levels. 11. The Russian Federation positively assessed the current Government’s efforts to eliminate a number of human rights violations that had been committed in the course of the “fight against terrorism” and to join in the work of the Human Rights Council. On the other hand, in a number of areas, including, first of all, acceding to the international human rights treaties and ensuring human rights in the process of the fight against terrorism, additional efforts by the United States were required. 12. Nicaragua stated that the United States had made the use of force the cornerstone of its expansionist policy and that Latin America was one of its victims. It stated that the United States had violated human rights while pretending to be the world’s guardian of human rights. 13. Indonesia noted positively the United States’ commitment to freedom and equality, and welcomed the country’s engagement with the Human Rights Council. It expressed its belief that the United States needed to make efforts to protect human rights in a balanced manner and to promote tolerance. Indonesia acknowledged the United States’ contribution to the development of the United Nations norms. 14. The Plurinational State of Bolivia made recommendations. 15. Ecuador noted the Government’s efforts to improve human rights, although the results had been limited. 16. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea remained concerned about the persistent reports of human rights violations committed by the United States at home and abroad. 17. Algeria stated that the election of a President of African descent had spoken louder than any statement about the United States’ commitment to civil and political rights. Algeria noted that prison overcrowding was the norm and that prisons housed 60 per cent more inmates than they had been designed for. 18. Qatar welcomed the United States’ efforts in combating racial and religious discrimination, providing social services and ensuring the enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights. 19. Mexico recognized the robust institutional infrastructure for the protection of human rights. 4