Paris: France has honoured a well-known Pakistani figure whose voice has been part of Parisian street life for decades. Ali Akbar, a 73-year-old Pakistani newspaper hawker and a familiar face in the Latin Quarter, has been awarded the Knight of the National Order of Merit, one of France’s highest civilian honours.
The ceremony was held at the Élysée Palace, where French President Emmanuel Macron presented the medal. He praised Ali Akbar for his perseverance, humility and lasting contribution to the social fabric of Paris. Macron said Ali carried the world in his arms and France in his heart, thanking him for spreading warmth and connection among residents and visitors.
Ali Akbar was born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, and arrived in France in the early 1970s after a long and challenging journey through several countries. With little money and limited language skills, he worked as a sailor and kitchen helper before finding stability as a newspaper seller in Paris.
Over the years, his cheerful calls, humour and kindness made him a local icon. Despite the decline of print media, he continues to sell newspapers daily. Ali says he has no plans to retire, adding that offering joy and entertainment to people remains his greatest reward.
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