WASHINGTON, March 20 (UPI) -- President Barack Obama, in a message sent to Iranians to mark the Persian new year, called the ongoing nuclear talks a "historic opportunity" for a different future.
Obama said Thursday the talks between Iran and Western countries "have made progress, but gaps remain." He said there are some who oppose a diplomatic resolution to an agreement that would curtail Iran's nuclear activities and will hinder the country's future.
"In other words, a nuclear deal now can help open the door to a brighter future for you—the Iranian people, who, as heirs to a great civilization, have so much to give to the world," he said. "I believe that our nations have a historic opportunity to resolve this issue peacefully—an opportunity we should not miss."
The United States and its allies -- China, France, Britain, German and Russia -- are working toward an agreement to curb Iran's nuclear program for at least 10 years in exchange of a gradual end to sanctions. They hope to have a deal reached by the end of March and signed by June 30.
The talks are opposed by some U.S. allies, including Israel, as well as some Republicans and Democrats. Earlier this month, 47 Republican senators signed a letter to Iran stating any nuclear deal may not be honored past Obama's presidency.
