ISLAMABAD, Pakistani-origin newspaper vendor Ali Akbar met French Ambassador to Pakistan Nicolas Galey on Friday, highlighting his remarkable five-decade contribution to public life in Paris.
Ali Akbar has sold newspapers on the streets of the French capital for more than 50 years. Earlier this year, the President of France honoured him with the Ordre national du Mérite, one of the country’s prestigious national distinctions.
French Ambassador Recognises Ali Akbar’s Contribution
During the meeting, Ambassador Nicolas Galey praised Ali Akbar for his extraordinary journey, dedication and long-standing contribution to Parisian public life.
For more than five decades, Akbar has remained a familiar face to generations of Parisians. Through his work selling newspapers, he has built strong connections with readers and people in the local community.
The French national honour recognised his hard work, resilience and the respect he has earned over the years.
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Recognition of Pakistani Diaspora
The meeting also highlighted the wider contribution of the Pakistani diaspora in France.
Members of the Pakistani community expressed pride in Ali Akbar’s recognition. They described the honour as a testament to the contributions of Pakistani expatriates and their role in French society.
Ali Akbar’s story also reflects the long-standing people-to-people ties between Pakistan and France. His decades of work in Paris have made him a well-known figure among local residents.
The recognition of his public service further underlines the value of dedication, resilience and community engagement among diaspora communities abroad.
