The dialogue was focused on successes and challenges towards the implementation of processes aimed at kick-starting economic processes in Cuba. The Committee had previously discussed the role South Africa could play in strengthening bilateral relations with Cuba. However, an oversight concern arose as to why it was seemingly slow for the economic activity between the two countries to flourish. This was despite South Africa's intervention through an Economic Assistance Package agreement approved for ratification in 2012 by Parliament. Among the reported hurdles to robust economic activity in Cuba were a third party's extra-territorial measures, in the form of the American government economic embargo on Cuba. In order to have a balanced view on the embargo and the Cuban Five, the Committee decided the second dialogue take place and the American embassy be given yet another chance to put their perspective on the issue. The American embassy was invited but could not attend