Colombian singer Shakira urged Latin American presidents to include the development of children during the next Ibero-American summit to be held in El Salvador.

Shakira, together with Spanish singer Alejandro Sanz, attended a discussion at the Columbia University in New York where the artists debated with several Latin American heads of state.

"We want to propose that the topic of early childhood development is included during the Ibero-American summit in November,"Shakira told the Presidents.

Shakira, who through several foundations actively is trying to improve living conditions of children in Latin America, stressed the importance that the basic needs of children between 0 and 6 years old are met. Children lacking basic needs at an early age "will be sentenced to not have a decent life," the singer added.

The Latin American leaders joining the debate expressed their commitment to bring up the topic during the summit.