Colombian singer Shakira on Monday reached a deal to end the long-running tax fraud dispute in Spain.
The settlement was reached just before her trial could begin.
Shakira said in a statement that she “was ready to face trial and defend my innocence,” but came “to the conclusion that it is not a triumph to win if the price is that (they) steal so many years of life.”
The Singer who stole South African hearts with her 1210 Word Cup hit “Waka Waka” added: “I had two options: keep fighting until the end, taking my peace of mind and that of my children, stop making songs, albums, and tours, without being able to enjoy my career and the things I like; or agree, close and leave this chapter of my life behind, looking forward (to the future).”
Spanish prosecutors had alleged the Grammy-winning singer failed to pay personal income and wealth tax between 2012 and 2014, currently valued at about $15.6 million.
