MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Hips don't lie: Shakira shakes up Santiago; Chile

Shakira, one of the world's most popular touring solo acts, stopped in Santiago for a two-night stint on her “Oral Fixation” tour, playing to almost sold-out crowds at Santiago National Arena.

In between her two concerts, the pop star took the time Wednesday to meet with Chilean President Michelle Bachelet.

With 12,000 anxious and exhilarated fans attending Tuesday's first concert, Shakira played sets of her best-known English and Spanish songs. One of the most popular pop stars in the business, she made it clear to her fans that she was a proud Latina first, and a superstar second. She not only has a brilliant future as a critically acclaimed songstress, but also as a young political activist with a lot of pull.

In October 2003, the Grammy Award-winning Shakira was appointed a global Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF, the world's leading organization for children.

"UNICEF has done tremendous work in my home nation of Colombia and I have seen first hand the difference UNICEF makes," she said. "It's rewarding to know that I can join such a great list of stars supporting UNICEF, and can personally contribute to improving the lives and futures of children."

In her role as Goodwill Ambassador, Shakira travels the world on behalf of children in developing countries. Her UNICEF work has included public announcements on the effect of HIV/AIDS on children's education and, more recently, campaigning for peace in El Salvador.

On a more personal level, Shakira has been dating Antonio de la Rúa, the first-born son of the former Argentine President Fernando de la Rúa, since 2000. He is accompanying her to many of her Oral Fixation tour locations, including the two nights in Santiago, and presumably on her next stop in his home country. The Santiago Times