Shakira next to Frederic Mitterand, the French Minister of Culture and Communication
The singer picks up the French Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres for her contribution to music
Shakira picked up two awards in France over the weekend.First the singer was awarded a French knighthood, the Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of the Arts and Letters) for her contribution to music. Previous recipients include Kylie Minogue, Vanessa Paradis, Jude Law and George Clooney.
Her proud parents were there to watch her receive the honour from the French Minister of Culture and Communication, Frederic Mitterand, whose attention to detail while pinning the medal to her chest and making sure it was secure was worthy of an award in itself...
Shakira looked stunning at the ceremony which was held at the Majestic Hotel in Cannes. She wore black boots and a black and white mini ensemble skirt and matching waistcoat. She told the crowd: "I'm happy. I always felt connected with France. Thanks for all the love you send me."
Shakira is the first Columbian to receive the honour and later posted on her website: "I am so humbled to receive this honour in a country like France that has shared an important cultural legacy with the rest of the world."
Later on, the star stepped out onto the red carpet with Justin Bieber and LMFAO at the French NRJ Awards at the Palais Des Festivals on the French Riviera. She was given the NRJ Award of Honour looking amazing in a gem-infused sparkly gold dress.
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