DHAKA: US President Barack Obama has told the Iranian people that a deal to transform the relationship between the two countries could be within reach.

“We have the best opportunity in decades to pursue a different future between our countries,” he said in a video message for Persian New Year.

Six world powers are negotiating a deal aimed at limiting Iran’s nuclear activity, with a March deadline near, reports the BBC.

The president conceded there were still ‘gaps’ in negotiations but was hopeful.

“This moment may not come again soon,” said Obama in his message celebrating Nowruz.

“I believe that our nations have an historic opportunity to resolve this issue peacefully - an opportunity we should not miss.”

If Iran’s leaders agreed to a reasonable deal, then the country would be on a path to prosperity, he said.

Isolation awaited if agreement was not reached, he added.

But the president has yet to convince the US Congress of the merits of a deal, and many lawmakers remain opposed to the easing of sanctions.

BDST: 1701 HRS, MAR 20, 2015