BBC News reports that Shakira received a French culture medal in Cannes on Saturday. The singer was honored for the contribution she has brought to the world of fine arts. The Colombian superstar was made a Knight of the Order of the Arts and Letters by French minister of culture, Frederic Mitterand.

Upon the receipt of the award, the “Hips Don’t Lie” singer confessed that she is proud to be honored in France. The title she received is all the more important as it comes from a country with one of the greatest cultures in the world.

Shakira was in France to perform at the opening of the NRJ Music Awards. She interpreted her hit “Je L’Aime A Mourir” and she was bestowed with yet another Award of Honor for her pop career. The male version of the prize was taken home by Justin Bieber. Adele was acknowledged as the International Revelation of the Year and she received the International Song of the Year trophy for “Someone Like You”.

There were many other famous artists who were awarded at the NRJ Music Awards. Rihanna was voted Best International Female and the British pop star Mika was named Best International Male. The crazy group, LMFAO, was crowned the Best International Group and their video “Party Rock Anthem” received a trophy for the category “Music Video of the Year”.

The NRJ Music Awards is one of the most prestigious events in the music industry, but being honored the Knight of the Order of the Arts and Letters is probably one of the greatest achievements of a pop star. The prize was handed to important international figures like director Clint Eastwood and actor George Clooney. The famous American poet TS Eliot also received this distinction, so it is an honor for Shakira to be included among these celebrities.