The Hague, June 23, IRNA - Visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Thursday that Iran-Dutch relations date back to the 16th century.

Zarif made the remarks in a joint press conference with his Dutch counterpart Bert Koenders.

Zarif reiterated that Iran-Netherlands relations are excellent and cordial.

The two countries have huge capacities to develop economic cooperation.

Koenders, for his part, said the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) has created a proper opportunity for expansion of relations between the two governments.

The Dutch foreign minister expressed deep concern about deterioration of humanitarian situation in the Middle East, saying that the current delicate situation in Iraq and Syria, in particular, were discussed during the meeting with the Iranian foreign minister.

Zarif on Thursday held talks with Dutch counterpart Bert Koenders on ways to develop diplomatic cooperation.

Zarif arrived in The Hague on Thursday morning after the end of his two-day visit to France.

So far, Zarif has held separate meetings with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, Economy Minister Hank Kamp and Speaker of House of Representatives of the Netherlands Khadija Arib.

By IRNA