Iran's return to international stage 'now possible' - Hollande

French President Francois Hollande said Wednesday that Iran's return to the international scene was "now possible" after a nuclear deal saw sanctions lifted against the country.

"It depends only on this great country to succeed," Hollande said just days ahead of a visit by President Hassan Rouhani to Paris, the first by an Iranian president in 17 years.

Hollande said a "de-escalation" of tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia was necessary and France was willing to play a role in this.

"We must do everything to work together for stability in the region. It is with this in mind that I will soon visit Egypt, Jordan and Oman," he said.