PARIS: Ali Akbar, a Pakistani-origin newspaper vendor who has been selling newspapers on the streets of Paris for over 50 years, is set to receive France’s highest civilian award.

According to news agencies, 72-year-old Ali Akbar is known as the last street newspaper vendor in Paris who still sells newspapers by hand.

Originally from Rawalpindi, Ali Akbar moved to France in 1973 and began selling newspapers shortly after his arrival.

Ali Akbar will be awarded the prestigious National Order of Merit by French President Emmanuel Macron in September. Ali Akbar is considered the last remaining street newspaper vendor in Paris.

The National Order of Merit is one of France’s highest civilian honours, awarded in recognition of distinguished civil or military service to the nation.