‘I will always remember Kaaba-washing ceremony’

• 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.