7. Iran, world powers reach first-step nuclear deal

On November 24, Iran and the P5+1 group -- the five UN Security Council permanent members Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States plus Germany -- reached a first-step agreement on Iran's nuclear program following intensive negotiations in Geneva.

According to the agreement, Iran has been committed to halting enrichment above 5 percent and neutralizing its stockpile of near-20 percent uranium by means of dilution or converting.

Furthermore, Iran has promised not to install more centrifuges, halt work at its plutonium reactor at Arak, and allow inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency daily access to its enrichment facilities at Natanz and Fordow.

In exchange, Iran received relief valued at some 7 billion US dollars including suspending certain sanctions on gold and precious metals, Iran's auto sector and petrochemical exports.

The landmark deal was the outcome of a compromise reached by Iran and the United States, which adopted pragmatic attitudes. It was reached also thanks to the efforts made by the international community, which marks an important first step toward solving the Iranian nuclear issue through diplomatic means.

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Iran nuclear talks end with a breakthrough deal