The dialogue came after increasing calls for better diplomatic relations to Cuba from young Cuban American groups, and US President Jimmy Carter's new human rights oriented foreign policy.

The Cuban government became interested in a humanitarian image rather than one of human rights violations, this desire would lead to the eventual release of political prisoners.

[4] President Jimmy Carter undertook a human rights-based foreign policy, and explored the idea of the United States bettering their relations with Cuba.

The Carter administration ended the United States travel ban to Cuba, and began speaking with Cuban officials via Interest Sections in third party countries.

Originally many Cuban exiles debated the dialogue's usefulness some were satisfied with the invitation while others doubted the sincerity of the negotiations believing it to be a publicity stunt.

[3] The topics of the talks included release of prisoners, family reunification, and the right of exiles to travel back to Cuba.