DHAKA: Pop star Shakira has set a new social media record after gaining the title for first person to reach 100 million likes on Facebook. And she has been listed in Guinness World Records.

The Colombian singer-songwriter reached the benchmark figure after posting a photo of herself in the Maracanã Stadium in Rio, Brazil last Sunday, prior to her performance during the closing ceremony of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

The new milestone adds to Shakira’s existing record for most “liked” person on Facebook, a title she holds ahead of fellow pop stars Rihanna and Eminem.

Speaking of her new achievement, Shakira said: "I am honored and humbled about reaching this milestone, because it's one that's purely about connecting with my fans from all parts of the globe,” 

She added: “Social media and specifically Facebook has helped myself and other artists bridge the gap between the stage and the audience.  We've been able to create a conversation, where both artists and fans can share with one another their thoughts, achievements, the most important moments of their lives in photographs and videos, and have a real, ongoing dialogue."

Commenting on Shakira’s incredible social media following, Justin Osofsky, Facebook’s VP of Global Operations and Media Partnerships, said: “The combination of Shakira’s global appeal, her authentic engagement with fans and her use of Facebook as a multi-media platform has positioned her to achieve the incredible milestone of 100M fans.”

BDST: 1213 HRS, JUL 19, 2014