Pezeshkian made the remarks during a meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where the two discussed bilateral relations, regional security and the repercussions of recent US and Israeli military actions against Iran.
The Iranian president said that on several occasions, negotiations were followed by actions that derailed the diplomatic process and ultimately led to war. He added that Iran had defended itself in response.
Pezeshkian also expressed Iran’s readiness to expand bilateral relations and broader cooperation with European countries, while addressing the underlying issues that have contributed to the current diplomatic impasse.
He noted the longstanding ties between Iran and the Netherlands, saying the two countries had previously enjoyed favorable relations before certain developments created the current obstacles.
Jetten acknowledged the historical ties between the two countries and stressed the need for practical mechanisms to overcome existing barriers. He also pointed to key regional issues, including maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, and called for efforts to ease tensions and promote lasting stability.
The two sides agreed to maintain regular diplomatic consultations, pursue practical solutions to reduce regional tensions and lay the groundwork for broader and more constructive cooperation between Tehran and Amsterdam.