U2 frontman Bono dedicated a song to former Israeli President Shimon Peres during a concert in Toronto. Photo: David Shankbone.

JNS.org – A moving tribute awaited former Israeli president Shimon Peres on Wednesday when U2 frontman Bono dedicated the song One to the Israeli statesman during a concert in Toronto.

Peres, who was attending a conference in Canada, was surprised when he received a personal invitation from Bono to be his guest at the concert, which was attended by 20,000 people.

“We understand, President Peres, that you have tried to be the voice of reason. And you’ve dedicated a lot of your life, all of your life, to try and bring peace in this really dangerous region,” the Irish singer said before performing the song “One.”

“Don’t give up on the two-state solution. At age 92, we know we can count on you,” Bono told Peres, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate who will celebrate his 92nd birthday next month. “We’re going to sing this song with two ancient peoples in mind. This is called ‘One.’ Mr. President, we’re all going to sing it to you.”

Peres thanked the rocker, calling Bono “a voice for hope and peace.”