Tuesday, June 30, 2026
World

Ali Akbar, who's sold newspapers on the streets of Paris for 50 years, is now a knight

For decades, Ali Akbar has sold papers on the Left Bank of Paris. Last month, France gave the beloved 73-year-old immigrant from Pakistan one of its highest honors — and his neighborhood is cheering.

Ali Akbar, who's sold newspapers on the streets of Paris for 50 years, is now a knight
Image: NPR World

For decades, Ali Akbar has sold papers on the Left Bank of Paris. Last month, France gave the beloved 73-year-old immigrant from Pakistan one of its highest honors — and his neighborhood is cheering.

(Image credit: GUILLAUME BAPTISTE)

Originally published at NPR World

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