Havana, May 19 (RHC) -– With sights on the re-establishment of diplomatic relations and the opening of embassies in Havana and Washington, Cuban and U.S. officials will meet on Thursday, May 21st, for the third round of high-level diplomatic talks between both nations.

Gustavo Machín, General Deputy Director of the U.S. Department of Cuba's Foreign Ministry, said that the just decision of President Barack Obama to take Cuba off the list of terrorism-sponsor countries has created a favorable context to advance the re-establishment of diplomatic ties and the opening of embassies.

Even though progress had been made, the two sides still need to reach agreement on the conduct of diplomats, said Gustavo Machin, adding that Cuba will insist on the strict observance of international principles and guidelines for diplomatic and consular relations, established under the Vienna Convention.

The official said Cuba is especially concerned about the illegal activities carried out by U.S. diplomats at Washington's Interest Section in Havana, including courses for so-called “independent journalists” and the provision of Internet services.

Machin said: "We should reach a common interpretation on what the rules of the Vienna Convention establish."