Obama felicitates Nowruz

President Obama delivered his annual Nowruz message to the people of Iran on Thursday, acknowledging that Iranian leadership renounces nuclear weapons.

Obama called for a long-term agreement on Iranian nuclear program and better relations between Iran and the United States.

If Tehran ˈmeets its international obligations, then there could be a new relationship between our two countries, and Iran could begin to return to its rightful place among the community of nations,ˈ Obama said in a video message.

The United States, its allies and Iran are in the midst of an interim agreement in which Iran lowered level of uranium enrichment from 20 percent voluntarily in exchange for easing of sanctions. The parties are now discussing a long-term deal.

ˈAs Iˈve said before, Iˈm under no illusions,ˈ Obama said. ˈThis will be difficult. But Iˈm committed to diplomacy because I believe there is the basis for a practical solution.ˈ

An agreement in which Iran renounces nuclear weapons would open economic opportunities for the nation and re-engagement with the world, Obama said.

ˈIf Iran seizes this moment, this Nowruz could mark not just the beginning of a new year, but a new chapter in the history of Iran and its role in the world,ˈ Obama said.

ˈA better relationship with the United States and the American people, rooted in mutual interest and mutual respect.