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

The Two Holy Mosques.

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

Alhamdullilah.

• Which book is by your bedside these days?

The Book of Words by Kazakh poet Abay (Ibrahim) Qunanbayuli.

• Your favorite holiday destination?

Kazakhstan.

• Your dream country where you would like to be posted after Saudi Arabia?

Turkey.

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

People of all countries that I had a chance to visit were friendly.

• How do you react to or deal with anger?

By not reacting.

• What is your source of strength during tough times?

Family.

• What was your first impression about the Kingdom?

A chance to serve and represent my country where my great-grandfather, Nazir Torekulov, was the first Soviet ambassador almost a century ago (1928-1935).

• Which Saudi city fascinated you the most?

Madinah.

• Your favorite Saudi dish?

Rice with lamb. Madfun.

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

First Umrah. First Haj. And the Kaaba-washing ceremony.

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

Twitter.

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

Scientist or actor.

• Is hiding truth acceptable in diplomacy?

Not at all. Truth is the most important tool of diplomacy.

• How do you keep yourself fit?

Football, running, biking and swimming.

• Your favorite football club?

None.

• Your favorite actor/actress?

None.

• What is your favorite weekend activity?

Spending time with family.