Even as talks in Geneva failed to arrive at an agreement on restraining Iran's nuclear program, the country has signed a joint statement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) agreeing to strengthen cooperation and dialogue to ensure the peaceful nature of the country's nuclear program.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry (L) is pictured in this combo image meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif (R) at the Iran nuclear talks in Geneva, November 9, 2013. (REUTERS/Jason Reed)

Under the accord with IAEA, Iran has agreed to provide timely information to the UN atomic watchdog, about its nuclear facilities and pursue its nuclear program implementation in a transparent manner. On its part, the IAEA has agreed to take into account Iran's security concerns and the use of managed access and the protection of confidential information regarding the country's nuclear program.

"This is an important step forward to start with, but much more needs to be done," Yukiya Amano, director-general of the IAEA, said at a news conference held after the signing of the joint statement.

"Under the Framework, Iran and the IAEA will cooperate further with respect to verification activities to be undertaken by the IAEA to resolve all present and past issues."

The Joint Statement on Framework for Cooperation was signed in Tehran by Mr. Amano and Iranian Vice-president Ali Akbar Salehi. It includes a list of practical measures to be undertaken as a first step by Iran within the next three months to build cooperation with the IAEA.

Reports said this list includes Iran agreement to provide mutually agreed relevant information and access to the Gchine mine in Bandar Abbas and the Heavy Water Production Plant. It also noted Iran will provide information on all new research reactors, the identification of 16 sites designated for the construction of nuclear power plants, and clarification on the announcements made by Iran regarding additional enrichment facilities and with respect to laser enrichment technology being pursued by the country.

After the signing of the joint statement with Iran, the Amano said the IAEA was "firmly committed to resolving all outstanding issues through dialogue and cooperation."

Iran has all along claimed that its nuclear program for peaceful purposes. Some countries in the region and western powers, however, contend that Iran's nuclear program is intended to build its weapon capabilities.