• Which particular aspect of Saudi Arabia do you like the most?

Among the numerous aspects that make me love this country, I particularly like its great outdoors, including the country’s modernity and the Saudi hospitality.

• What is your favorite and oft-repeated Arabic word?

Ahlan wa sahlan.

• Which book is sitting by your bedside these days?

It is a book on Saudi women by French journalist Clarence Rodriguez-Vial called Révolution sous le voile.

• Your favorite holiday destination?

My favorite destination outside Saudi Arabia is Italy.

Rabat or Roma.

• Which country’s people have you found to be most friendly?

Saudi Arabia and Lebanon are definitely the friendliest places I have ever been.

• How do you react to or deal with anger?

I avoid humiliating words.

• What is your source of strength during tough times?

I try to adopt a philosophical stance.

• What was your first impression about the Kingdom?

At first, I was struck by the notion of time, which is very specific here.

• Your favorite Saudi dish?

Jerish.

• The one thing about the Kingdom that you will always remember?

I will never forget a number of people who warmly invited me for tea even if I didn’t know them.

• If you were given only one option between Facebook and Twitter, what would that be?

None of the above.

• If you were not a diplomat, what would you be?

A hotelier.

• How do you keep yourself fit?

I walk and I swim.

• Your favorite restaurant?

La Cucina in Riyadh.

• Your favorite football club?

I like both Al-Hilal and Al-Shabab.

• Your favorite actor/actress?

My favorite actor is a great comedian, well known for his parts in French comedies, called Louis de Funes.

• Your favorite weekend activity?

Snorkeling in the Red Sea.