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

The unexpected diversity of the country.

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

Shukran.

• Which book is by your bedside these days?

Interventions: A Life in War and Peace. By Kofi Annan.

• Your favorite holiday destination?

Greece.

• What is your dream country where you would like to be posted after Saudi Arabia?

Somewhere in the Middle East.

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

Friendly people exist everywhere. I experienced tremendously warm welcomes in all my previous postings, be it in the Balkans, Russia or the Middle East.

• How do you react to or deal with anger?

I try to control it — even though it is difficult sometimes.

• What is your source of strength during tough times?

My family.

• What was your first impression about the Kingdom?

A country with an excellent infrastructure in a challenging natural environment.

• Which Saudi city fascinated you the most?

Riyadh.

• Your favorite Saudi dish?

Kabsa.

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

The friendliness if its people toward children.

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

Facebook.

• If you had not become a diplomat, what would you be?

Prosecutor.

• Is hiding truth acceptable in diplomacy?

Some issues have to be dealt with more cautiously than others. However, giving false information is never acceptable.

• How do you keep yourself fit?

Time permitting, I go to the gym or play soccer.

• Your favorite restaurant?

Karam Beirut on Prince Muhammad bin Abdul Aziz Road, Riyadh.

• Your favorite football club?

Red Bull Salzburg.

• Your favorite actor/actress?

Robert de Niro.

• What is your favorite weekend activity?

Spending time with my family.