U.S. President Barack Obama said if 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.

In his speech marking Novruz holiday, Obama said for the first time in many years, “we have the opportunity to start down a new path”.

“If 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—including a better relationship with the United States and the American people, rooted in mutual interest and mutual respect,”  he said.

President said he has no illusions, and the process will be difficult, but “there is a chance to reach an agreement if Iran takes meaningful and verifiable steps to assure the world that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only”.