Protests near Dutch missions in Ankara, Istanbul

ANKARA (AA) - Hundreds of people gathered outside the Dutch embassy in Ankara and consulate in Istanbul to protest the Dutch government's ban on Turkish ministers.

Police have blocked the traffic at Turan Gunes Street in Cankaya district after many others demonstrators were on their way to attend the rallies.

In Istanbul, protesters flocked to Dutch consulate at Istiklal Street of Beyoglu district.

The demonstrators carried Turkish flags and placards reading “YES” in reference to upcoming referendum in April and some others chanted anti-Dutch government slogans.

On Saturday, Dutch government canceled Turkish foreign minister's flight permit and blocked family minister's convoy from entering the Turkish consulate in Rotterdam.

The ministers were due to meet Turkish society ahead of April 16 referendum which will see a constitutional amendment.

Turkish foreign ministry asked duty-off Dutch ambassador in Ankara who was on leave not to return 'for a while'.

Dutch police dispersed Turkish citizens who took to the streets to protest police's treatment of Turkish family minister.

In Turkey, hundreds of people flocked to Dutch missions in Ankara and Istanbul to protest the Dutch government's moves.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan described the move as a measure by “Nazi remnants and fascists”.