A/HRC/12/13 Page 8 39. Indonesia appreciated the decision to prepare a national human rights strategy and efforts to upgrade the situation of women, and stated that the projected establishment of an independent national human rights institution should be encouraged. It requested Yemen to share its best practices in reconciling international human rights norms with religious and cultural precepts. 40. India appreciated the establishment of a committee to harmonize legislation with international obligations and the adoption of progressive laws, including on women’s rights. India was encouraged by the adoption of the National Strategy for Children and Young People and the lowering of the under-five mortality rate. India referred to the influx of refugees and welcomed efforts undertaken for their welfare. India asked about the envisaged establishment of an independent national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles. 41. Japan welcomed restrictions on the minimum age of marriage for women. It noted the inclusion of human rights in the Constitution but stated that many citizens remain unaware of these provisions. Japan stressed the lack of adequate infrastructure in the judiciary system and the failure to execute court rulings, which undermined public trust in the judiciary. 42. The Islamic Republic of Iran appreciated the efforts of Yemen to further human rights and address challenges, with due regard to national and regional particularities and historical, cultural and religious backgrounds. It requested further information on the activities and responsibilities of the Ministry of Human Rights. 43. Mexico applauded Yemen’s cooperation with UPR and its voluntary commitments as reflected in the national report. Yemen has made significant progress in consolidating democracy and has a broad infrastructure in place to promote human rights. 44. Tunisia noted Yemen’s commitment to human rights and democracy, demonstrated by the cooperation with the United Nations mechanisms and the enactment of laws. Tunisia greatly appreciated the achievements made since unification. Tunisia applauded the courage of the Yemeni authorities in providing a frank and transparent list of challenges faced. 45. The Syrian Arab Republic stressed Yemen’s great efforts to strengthen human rights, highlighting the institutional structure established. It stated that despite limited resources, Yemen had spared no effort to provide education free of charge and had enlarged vocational training and education. 46. The Republic of Korea noted with satisfaction that the Constitution and other laws enshrine human rights principles. It noted various mechanisms designed to uphold human rights of vulnerable people. It noted that Yemen’s reports to the Committee against Torture are long overdue and enquired about difficulties faced by Yemen in this regard. 47. Viet Nam noted that, despite limited resources and challenges, Yemen registered significant progress since unification. It congratulated Yemen for its voluntary commitments, establishment of a legislative and institutional human rights framework, efforts to harmonize national law with international instruments and cooperation with United Nations human rights mechanisms. 48. The Netherlands welcomed steps taken to eliminate provisions in legislation that discriminate against women. It asked how Yemen would ensure that a decree recently issued by the Ministry of information, suspending the publication of any paper harming national unity, will not encroach freedom of expression, particularly press freedom.