Pop superstar Shakira and her longtime boyfriend have announced their split.
The Colombian singer and Antonio de la Rua mutually decided to "take time apart" last August (10), ending their romance of more than 10 years.
However, the pair state they "view this period of separation as temporary" and are still working together as business partners.
A post from the couple on Shakira's official website reads: "During our almost 11 years together we have loved each other deeply, taken care of each other and stood by one another. They have been the most wonderful years of our lives.
"However, since August 2010, we made a mutual decision to take time apart from our romantic relationship... We view this period of separation as temporary and as a time of individual growth as we continue to be partners in our business and professional lives."
Shakira adds: "Antonio continues to oversee and conduct my business and career interests as he has always done. We move forward as partners, developing projects together, working hand-in-hand and in close communication. Our friendship and understanding of one another is unwavering and indestructible."
De la Rua, the son of former Argentine President Fernando de la Rua, proposed to the Whenever, Wherever hitmaker in March, 2001.