Irish rock star and rights campaigner Bono has been given an honorary British knighthood, the British Embassy in Dublin has said.
"Her Majesty The Queen has appointed Bono to be an honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in recognition of his services to the music industry and for his humanitarian work," the embassy said in a statement.
It said Bono would receive the award from the British ambassador to Ireland in a ceremony in Dublin shortly after New Year's Day.
A copy of a letter sent from Mr Blair to U2's frontman was posted on the site.
"I am absolutely delighted that you have accepted an honorary KBE in recognition of your outstanding contribution to music and for your remarkable humanitarian work," it reads.
"I'll leave it to others far more knowledgeable than me to talk about U2's music. All I'll say is that, along with millions of others right across the world, I am a huge fan.
"But I feel a little more qualified to talk about your personal commitment to tackling global poverty and, in particular, to Africa.
I know from talking to you how much these causes matter to you."
Mr Blair said Bono had worked "tirelessly" to speak up for Africa and personally thanked him for his role in the G8 Summit.
"Without your personal contribution, we could not have achieved the results we did.
So thank you and I look forward to continuing to work together to maintain momentum on Africa, and ensure leaders around the world meet the promises they have made. "Both in your music and in your determination to help tackle global poverty, you have been an inspiration." Fellow Irish rocker Bob Geldof, also a high-profile rights campaigner, received the same award in 1986.
Bestowal of an honorary award does not confer the title "Sir" on the holder.
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