AFTER years of protracted, often chequered, negotiations with Iran on nuclear regimen, a framework agreement has been inked between Tehran and US, UK, France, China and Russia plus Germany, known as P5+1. This preliminary accord outlines a formula of verifiable limits on Iran's ability to enrich uranium in exchange for phased but rapid withdrawal of sanctions on the country.

With the long-standing sanctions crippling Iran's economy, not only did the people suffer,the country's overall development was also stifled. Moreover, Iran felt encumbered in taking its rightful place in the region. Little wonder, therefore that Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif has described the deal as 'win-win' outcome. In fact, exemplary give-and-take scripted the historic deal.

Obama must be credited with having held his ground against Israeli resistance and a hostile Republican-dominated Congress. He also had to sell the deal to skeptical allies. In all, his tenacious and patient diplomacy, with Kerry at his side, and a responsive Iranian leadership staying the course, the forward-looking deal could be worked out.

Now the real challenge begins-to translate the framework accord into a comprehensive agreement by June 30 this year. That Iran and six world powers have been involved in finalising the preliminary deal kindles hopes for its sustainability into a final accord.