(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Shakira has decided to take time apart from her fianc, who she had been with for 11 years.

The Columbian singer and Antonio de la Rue got engaged a year after they began dating, but Shakira has continually dismissed speculation about when they would marry. She always insisted the couple were happy with their relationship the way it was.

However, yesterday she confirmed she and Antonio are no longer together. The 33-year-old broke the news on her blog, revealing they have been separated for some time.

Since August 2010, we made a mutual decision to take time apart from our romantic relationship, she wrote. Throughout this time we have continued to work together hand in hand, have remained close and have kept the details absolutely private until now.

Shakira hinted the pair may reconcile at some point in the future, and explained they plan to keep their professional relationship. They still get on well, with the star admitting she will always view the last 11 years as some of the best of her life.

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, she explained. 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.

A source told UsMagazine.com the pair simply realised they were more friends than lovers, so decided to take time apart to see what they both want. (C) Cover Media