Pope Francis is in the US to discuss thorny issues such as climate change and worldwide poverty, but on Friday the mood will be lightened when he meets pop star Shakira. The Catholic leader will visit the United Nations headquarters in New York City, where he will be treated to a performance by the Hips Don't Lie singer.
Shakira, 38, will perform Imagine by John Lennon in a rendition lasting approximately ten minutes.
Before this, the Pope will take centre stage, to give a 50-minute address at the UN's General Assembly.
© Photo: Getty ImagesShakira will perform Imagine at the UN General Assembly
Representatives from nearly 200 nations will come together to discuss global goals aimed at tackling issues from ending poverty to promoting gender inequality. In his speech, Pope Francis is expected to focus on climate change, while also touching on the migrant crisis.
The 78-year-old Pontiff touched down for his first visit to the US on Tuesday, where he was greeted by President Obama and his family at the airport in Maryland. The Pope was met with chants of "Francisco" and "Welcome to the USA! Hello! Hey!" and before his arrival, a high school band sang a rendition of Pharrell Williams' Happy.
The Argentine-born leader kicked off his visit in Washington, followed by New York City and Philadelphia. He will arrive in the Big Apple on Thursday night to hold evening prayers at St. Patrick's Cathedral. The following morning he will attend the UN's General Assembly.
© Photo: Getty ImagesPope Francis touched down in the US on Tuesday for his five-day tour
Shakira, meanwhile, is already in New York, where she has been carrying out duties in her role as a UN Goodwill Ambassador.
The mum-of-two attended a "Meeting of the Minds" where she discussed the need for investing in early childhood development initiatives. She was joined by Secretary General Ban Ki Moon and U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan among other leaders who are passionate about the subject.
