Riyadh fascinates Peruvian envoy

• Which particular aspect of Saudi Arabia you like the most?
The friendliness of most of its people.
• What is your favorite and oft-repeated Arabic word?
MashaAllah. I like it because the intonation reveals a genuine positive reaction and a friendly solidarity with you or with your achievements.
• Which book is by your bedside these days?
The Discreet Hero. By Mario Vargas-Llosa.
• Your favorite holiday destination?
Mostly a summer one. I enjoy the sun by the sea.
• The dream city/country that you would like to be posted after Saudi Arabia?
Because of the mandatory rotation in the Peruvian Foreign Service, after Riyadh I will be going back home for three years and Peru will always be my favorite country.
• Which country’s people have you found to be most friendly?
In the Americas, I like Colombians; in Europe, the Greeks; and here in the Middle East, Saudis of course, as well as Palestinians.
• How do you react to or deal with anger?
Anger is a big word for a rather infrequent sentiment. Usually, I will deal with uncomfortable situations by lowering my voice and counting my words.
• What was your first impression about the Kingdom?
It was a very hot one indeed! The summer of 2012, when I first arrived, was the hottest one. However, I was lucky because I also met and made friendship with a very nice group of Saudis during my first few weeks in town.
• Which Saudi city fascinated you the most?
Riyadh with all its great potential. I believe it is already showing how massive and important it will become in the coming years.
• Your favorite Saudi dish?
Kabsa and Umm Ali.
• If you were given only one option between Facebook and Twitter, what would that be?
They both have become important means of public diplomacy, and one must recognize their importance in forming public opinion.
• If you were not a diplomat, what would you be?
Sociologist.
• How do you keep yourself fit?
I promise myself to get back to the gym.
• Your favorite football club?
Al-Nasser, of course.
• Your favorite weekend activity?
After taking care of the news, I try as much as much as possible to stay away from work.