First round of talks aimed at reaching final deal by June 30 was positive, western diplomats say.

Diplomats say the first round of Iran nuclear talks aimed at turning a tentative agreement into a final deal has been positive and indicates an agreement can be reached by the June 30 deadline.

The United States and five other powers want Tehran to agree to long-term curbs on programs that can make nuclear arms. Iran denies wanting such weapons but is seeking relief from sanctions imposed earlier over its refusal to reduce its atomic activities.

Two western diplomats familiar with the talks said the three-day round ending Friday focused mostly on the pace of lifting sanctions. They demanded anonymity because they are not authorized to discuss the negotiations.

They said the parties will meet again on the sidelines of a UN conference in New York that starts next week.

By The Associated Press