_akhbar.jpg)
Islamabad : France’s Ambassador Nicolas Galey honoured Pakistani-born newspaper vendor Ali Akbar’s remarkable five-decade association with the streets and public life of Paris.
Born in Rawalpindi around 1952-53, Akbar moved to France in 1973 after travelling through several countries. He began selling newspapers and other publications around the Sorbonne and the café terraces of the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, eventually becoming known as the last traditional street newspaper hawker in Paris.
For more than five decades, he has continued his daily rounds, becoming a familiar figure to generations of Parisians. Known for his distinctive cry, “Ca y est!”, and his lively interaction with passers-by, he has become a neighbourhood institution.
His contribution was formally recognised on January 28, 2026, when President Emmanuel Macron made him a Knight of the National Order of Merit at the Élysée Palace.
Macron praised Akbar as a “voice of the French press” and highlighted his journey, resilience and contribution to French civic life.
During a meeting in Islamabad, Ambassador Galey praised the prestigious honour, describing it as fitting recognition of Akbar’s extraordinary journey, dedication and decades-long contribution to Paris.
Akbar’s recognition has also been welcomed by members of the Pakistani community in France, who described it as a source of pride and a testament to the contributions of Pakistani expatriates.
Despite his age, Akbar continues to sell newspapers every day, maintaining a tradition that has all but disappeared from the French capital.
He said faith, honesty and service to people kept him going.
Akbar urged Pakistani youth to stay consistent, work hard, remain honest and serve others, saying true recognition comes to those who never stop striving.
