A/HRC/31/6 102. The delegation stated that 11 conventions on human rights had been published in a special edition of the official gazette and that action plans for their implementation had been launched. 103. With regard to the implementation of the national child protection strategy, the delegation noted that regional round tables on protection of children had been organized in 10 wilayas, or provinces, for the purpose of tackling the problems of street children, and that there were centres for the protection and integration of children in the major cities. 104. The delegation stated forcefully that there was no discrimination against the Haratin ethnic group and that all ethnic groups had been living together in harmony for centuries, contributing to the country’s development. 105. Egypt praised Mauritania for establishing national mechanisms, including the High Council for Fatwa and Administrative Appeals, and adopting strategies to tackle violence against women, human trafficking, forced labour, slavery and torture. 106. Ethiopia commended Mauritania for the significant progress made in the implementation of international conventions and welcomed the Government ’s efforts to draw up an action plan to combat racial discrimination, xenophobia and related forms of intolerance. 107. France welcomed the progress made by Mauritania since the first review, including the ratification of several international instruments and the adoption of the ambitious legislation against slavery. 108. Germany commended Mauritania for establishing a system of asylum, inclu ding provisions to protect refugees. However, it indicated some remaining concerns about the human rights situation. 109. Ghana noted with appreciation the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission to combat slavery, torture of detainees, pove rty and rape. It also noted the strides made in ratifying international human rights legal instruments. 110. Indonesia welcomed continued efforts by Mauritania to promote and protect human rights through coordination with line ministries, the National Huma n Rights Commission, civil society organizations and the Office of the Ombudsman. 111. The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomed the constitutional review and the establishment of new institutions. 112. Iraq noted the accession of Mauritania to the Conventio n on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol and commended the establishment of a body dealing with gender equality under the auspices of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Children and the Family. 113. Ireland noted the adoption of a new anti-slavery law. It was concerned about harassment, intimidation and arbitrary detention of human rights defenders. It encouraged Mauritania to issue a standing invitation to all United Nations special procedure mandate holders. 114. Italy welcomed the implementation of the national child protection strategy, the drafting of a plan of action to combat child labour and the adoption by the Council of Ministers of a national strategy for gender mainstreaming. 115. Jordan commended Mauritania for the initiatives it had taken, particularly to cooperate with human rights mechanisms and develop legislation and strategies to promote human rights, including the rights to education and health. 12/26 GE.15-22687