New Delhi, June 13 -- Iranian and US officials have expressed optimism that a deal to end the West Asia war is closer than ever.

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States could take place within the next few days.

Araghchi said that, once finalised, the MoU will be signed digitally by both sides in their respective countries and then announced. Giving details, he said that following the potential signing, both parties will commit not to initiate another war and will begin the second stage of negotiations, scheduled within a 60-day period, to reach a final agreement, focusing mainly on Iran's nuclear programme and the removal of sanctions.

He stressed...