The six world powers and Iran have reportedly reached an agreement in the talks over the Islamic Republic’s nuclear programme in Lausanne.

A Western diplomat told Haaretz that the parties were writing a joint announcement, to be released later this evening.

European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini tweeted: "Final Ministerial Plenary of these #IranTalks. Now going to meet the press with @JZarif. Good news."

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif also posted his reaction on Twitter: “Found solutions. Ready to start drafting immediately”, and President Hassan Rouhani wrote: “Solutions on key parameters of Iran #nuclear case reached. Drafting to start immediately, to finish by June 30th.”

The closing of gaps between Iran and the six powers comes two days after the official deadline for an agreement, March 31.

US Secretary of State John Kerry, Mr Zarif and European Union diplomat Helga Schmidt held deliberations for nine hours over Wednesday night in an effort to reach a deal.