Iran started suspending high levels of uranium enrichment Monday as an interim deal struck with six world powers went into effect, state media reported, making way for more talks and less financial sanctions.

The nation stopped enrichment of uranium to the 20% purity level and disconnected cascades of centrifuges enriching uranium in Natanz, a top nuclear official told Press TV.

International inspectors were present when Iran started implementing the historic deal, Press TV said.

The action is part of a six-month interim agreement that gives Iran and six other countries — the United States, Britain, China, France, Russia and Germany — more time to negotiate a permanent solution.

Iran struck the deal with the nations on November 24 in exchange for lighter sanctions.

If all conditions are met, Iran will get sanctions relief totaling about $7 billion, including access to $4.2 billion in frozen assets, during the six months the interim deal is in effect.

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