‘Delhi is a green city… Gulf countries have skyscrapers but no greenery’: Niger Ambassador

He speaks to The Indian Express as part of a series of interviews with diplomats about Delhi — their home.

Excerpts:

How long have you been in Delhi? What is the one place in the city that you love to visit often?

Before I reply to your question, I have to mention that I have been here for almost 12 years, not in the position of Ambassador, but as a Defense Attache. I have recently been appointed as Ambassador.

So in Delhi, I really like Nehru Park, India Gate and Sarojini Market.

Three things that have stood out during your stay?

First, the time I arrived coincided with Prime Minister Modi also assuming office. This was a very good and important coincidence for me.

Second, I witnessed a lot of events. Mostly, celebrations of national days like the Republic Day and Independence Day. I love that Delhi has so many events for ambassadors.

The third thing that stood out to me was the fact that I witnessed multiple earthquakes. They were not very strong and didn’t affect many people, but I remember observing a little shaking and then hearing it all over the news.

How is Delhi different from other major capitals or cities you have served in?

The traffic… how well it is managed, without any stress. Also, Delhi is a green city. There is greenery all around, which makes it stand out. To give you an example, Gulf countries are well developed with skyscrapers, but there’s no greenery.

Does pollution in Delhi bother you? How do you and your family deal with it?

I have been here for a long time and have experienced peak pollution during the Diwali season. I constantly see the state of pollution in October, November and December… but I’m not really worried about it because I don’t expose myself (to it) much. I’m usually between home and office, using the air purifier, wearing a mask. Even when I’m outside for my regular work or on foot, I wear a mask, so I’m not affected… but I know that it’s a major concern.

What food did you like here?

Of course, India is, I mean, famous for the biryani, so I like the biryani… in my country, too, the main meal is based on rice. So, here in Delhi, I order from my Punjab Grill or Barbecue Nation.

Is there anything that you would suggest Delhi’s administrators work on to make this city a better place?

Yes, the cleanliness… I know they are doing it in a lot of places. Some are very clean, but some also need a lot of attention, which is what I have observed.

If you have to introduce Delhi back home, what will you tell them?

I will tell the people about the traffic… the roads are really crowded but very well managed. I’m surprised at the understanding between people. In other cities, people really come to a disagreement if there’s a lot of traffic. I’m surprised at how people just come to an understanding while driving so peacefully.

Memories, encounters or meetings that happened while you were in Delhi, which you think will stay with you always?

As the ambassador, meeting the Indian President and presenting my credentials to her was a very important encounter for me. Second, meeting the Prime Minister as the Defense Attache after Republic Day was a memory I’ll never forget. I’ve also met Pranab Mukherjee, the former President. Meeting a lot of Indian dignitaries during the Defense Expo is also something that will stay with me.

Is there anything that you or your family would miss once you say goodbye to this city?

The environment of Delhi. I will miss how green Delhi is. All these trees are well-maintained and preserved. Some of my favorite places to visit in the Capital are parks, like Nehru Park, and so on.