Bishop welcomes Iran nuclear negotiations

The Australian government has welcomed new steps toward a potentially historic deal with Iran over its nuclear program.

Iran and six world powers have agreed on the framework of the deal, which Foreign Minister Julie Bishop says is an important step toward reaching a final agreement.

The deal will "address international concern about Iran's nuclear program", Ms Bishop said in a statement on Friday.

"There remain many details that need to be addressed over the coming few months and I encourage all parties to continue to engage constructively in these negotiations."

The framework agreement marks a major breakthrough in a 12-year standoff after marathon talks in Switzerland and there is hope it could help stability in the Middle East.

Ms Bishop said she is looking forward to visiting Iran on April 18, "to discuss the nuclear issue and other important bilateral and regional issues with Foreign Minister Zarif and other Iranian leaders."