In a historic achievement, a Rawalpindi-born newspaper hawker Ali Akbar received a top award from the French President Emmanuel Macron.
The 74-year-old newspaper vendor got the prestigious award after spending over 50 years on Paris selling satire magazines and daily.
The Rawalpindi-born received the Knight of the Grand Order of Merit. This award recognises distinguished service to France in a civilian or military capacity at the French presidential palace.
Ali has been selling fashionable district’s venues with a pile of papers from early 1970s, employing a unique blend of humour and energy to fight falling sales.
French president Emmanuel Macron lauded Rawalpindi-born Akbar, saying “Dear Ali, thank you for bringing political news to our terraces at the top of your lungs, for warming the hearts of the Flore, the Deux Magots, the Lipp brasserie.”
“You are the accent of the 6th arrondissement. The voice of the French press. French has become your language. You have learned to play with it, making it your own. You have carried, if I may say so, the world in your arms and France in your heart. He is a magnificent example at a time when we so often hear bad news.” Macron told Akbar.
Ali Zafar Receives Cultural Icon Award in US
Earlier, Pakistan’s rockstar Ali Zafar was honoured with the Cultural Icon Award in United States for his contributions to the promotion of music and culture.
As per details, the awards was given to Ali Zafar by Pakistani American Law Enforcement Society in US for his efforts in promoting cultural values and the positive image of Pakistan through his art.
During his address at the event, Ali Zafar stated that the power of art goes beyond borders and has the ability to connect hearts.
The star singer also mentioned the role of the Ali Zafar Foundation in Pakistan, which has focused on education and the rehabilitation of flood-affected communities.
