WASHINGTON — U.S. President Barack Obama, in a message to Iran's people and leaders, said this year represented the "best opportunity in decades" to pursue a different relationship between their two countries.

Obama said Thursday that nuclear talks between Iran and Western powers had made progress but that gaps remained. "This moment may not come again soon," Obama said in his message celebrating Nowruz, the Iranian New Year. "I believe that our nations have an historic opportunity to resolve this issue peacefully — an opportunity we should not miss."

Let our news meet your inbox. The news and stories that matters, delivered weekday mornings. This site is protected by recaptcha

Iran and six world powers are seeking a comprehensive agreement to curb Iran's most sensitive nuclear activities for at least 10 years in exchange for a gradual end to sanctions against Tehran. The powers aim to complete the framework of a final deal by the end of March and reach a full agreement by June 30.

Obama said in his message that "the days and weeks ahead will be critical. Our negotiations have made progress, but gaps remain. And there are people, in both our countries and beyond, who oppose a diplomatic resolution."

"My message to you — the people of Iran — is that, together, we have to speak up for the future we seek," he said, adding: "This year, we have the best opportunity in decades to pursue a different future between our countries."

IN-DEPTH

— Reuters