A/HRC/15/60 2. Views expressed by Member and observer States of the Council on the review outcome 645. The Russian Federation welcomed the Government’s decision to expand its obligations under international human rights treaties and to take relevant measures at the national level, and to contribute to the constructive dialogue on human rights issues at the international level. It took note of Belarus’ cooperation in the universal periodic review process, which was demonstrated in the discussions of the Working Group and by the Government’s position with regard to recommendations. The Russian Federation was confident that the implementation of accepted recommendations would further the progress documented in broad areas of human rights in Belarus. 646. Algeria commended Belarus for the progress achieved in civil and political rights, as well as in economic, social and cultural rights, and noted that the progress would make the country one of the first in its region and beyond to achieve the Millennium Development Goals. Algeria appreciated the fact that 70 per cent of the recommendations made had been accepted, including four recommendations made by Algeria. There had been indications that recommendations that had not been accepted were still under consideration, which attested to the Government’s exemplary commitment to the universal periodic review. 647. Cuba stated that the review at the Working Group session had confirmed Belarus’ political commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights. The universal periodic review identified some of the achievements made in the area of human rights, such as illiteracy eradication, free education and health, the low levels of maternal and infant mortality and the drastic reduction of HIV/AIDS. It commended Belarus for having accepted a large number of recommendations, including those made by Cuba. It encouraged Belarus to continue to work for the improvement of the social and economic development of its people. 648. Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) noted with appreciation Belarus’ readiness to provide thorough information, which had assisted in the constructive discussion on the progress made and the remaining challenges to the promotion of human rights. Thanks to investments in social policy, Belarus provided guarantees for full enjoyment of social rights for all in an inclusive and non-discriminatory manner. Venezuela appreciated the fact that Belarus had met the Millennium Development Goals in the areas of poverty reduction, gender equality and access to primary education before the set deadlines. The delegation encouraged Belarus to continue to invest in the implementation of social policies. 649. The Syrian Arab Republic thanked the Government for the detailed information on Belarus’ position towards the various recommendations made during the review, and demonstrated Belarus’ sincere efforts to implement the greatest number of recommendations possible in order to promote and protect human rights for all. It encouraged Belarus to continue its efforts and invited it to fulfil its human rights commitments in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 650. Bahrain noted that Belarus had taken the measures necessary to implement the recommendations made during the review and to strengthen and promote human rights, which demonstrated the Government’s readiness to further progress in the area of human rights and its commitment to the United Nations. Bahrain noted with appreciation Belarus’ efforts to provide free access to health care and to combat trafficking in human beings, including through the establishment of rehabilitation centres for the victims of human trafficking. 651. Viet Nam noted with appreciation Belarus’ achievements in promoting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms in past years. Belarus was among those countries that had implemented the Millennium Development Goals relating to poverty GE.11-17043 179