Bikini clad Shakira & Gerard Pique show baby bump

Shakira and Gerard Piqué have posted a semi-naked photo on Twitter to promote a UNICEF charity appeal.

The couple - who are currently expecting their first child together - have launched a 'virtual baby shower' in order to raise money for the children's charity.

(Twitter)

The photos were taken in December by Jaume Laiguana, and are featured in the interactive social media project.

UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Shakira and Barcelona FC defender Piqué have invited fans to join the online shower to support vulnerable babies worldwide.

World-famous singer-songwriter and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Shakira and FC Barcelona star Gerard Piqué are inviting friends and fans today to join their online baby shower, on Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013, in support of the world's most vulnerable babies. (AP)

"To celebrate the arrival of our first child, we hope that, in his name, other less privileged children in the world can have their basic needs covered through gifts and donations," the pair said. "Thank you for sharing this unforgettable moment with us."

(Twitter)

The interactive baby shower allows fans to look inside their virtual living room, where users can learn about child survival issues and purchase an 'Inspired Gift' that can help raise money for the campaign.

At the baby shower, inspired gifts cost as little as $5, which can buy a mosquito net to ensure a sleeping child stays safe from malaria, one of the leading causes of child death worldwide. For $10 guests can buy polio vaccines to protect 17 children from contracting this incurable viral infection, while US$37 purchases a baby-weighing scale to monitor growth in the first critical years of life.

"Every expectant parent around the world shares all the same hopes and dreams for their children that we do," Shakira added. "Yet many don't share the same opportunities. Together we know we can change that."

After purchasing a gift, users will receive a thank-you message from the couple.

Shakira confirmed that she was expecting a baby boy in October.

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