Seen as a relative moderate, Mr Rouhani has said he wants a deal on Iran's nuclear programme within six months.

 

No breakthrough is expected in the initial two days of talks in Geneva, but Iran's foreign minister said he hoped a "roadmap" could be agreed.

 

The West suspects Iran of seeking a nuclear arms capability². 

 

Tehran denies the claim, saying its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes only.

 

Ahead of the talks, Israel warned that it would be a "historic mistake" to ease pressure on Iran.

 

 

Iran will hold discussions with representatives of the so-called P5+1 group, made up of Britain, China, France, Russia and the US plus Germany.

 

The Iranian team is led by Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, although much of the actual negotiating is expected to be delegated to his deputy, Abbas Araqchi.

 

"Tomorrow is the start of a difficult and relatively³ time-consuming way forward," Mr Zarif posted on his Facebook page.

 

"I am hopeful that by Wednesday we can reach agreement on a roadmap to find a path towards resolution."

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