Qatar, a key negotiator in the deal to end the war between the US and Iran, believes the agreement can deliver security to the Middle East, AFP reports.

“We are cautiously optimistic that the signing of the memorandum of understanding will lead to the next phase of regional security through the talks that will take place on the nuclear programme and on other issues,” foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari tells reporters at a regular press briefing.

He confirms that both Pakistani and Qatari officials will be present for the formal signing of the memorandum on Friday.

Declining to comment on the contents of the deal, the spokesman urges “regional dialogue” after the accord is inked if trust with Iran is to be rebuilt.

“I can’t say that we are returning to business as usual in our region with our neighbours … there is a lot of need for dialogue and for agreement over how to guarantee the security of our region,” he says.