U2's frontman Bono reaped praises from Russia's president Dmitry Medvedev for writing music that "unites generation." Medvedev complimented Bono for raising awareness of problems in Africa such as poverty and the spread of HIV and AIDS in the continent.

"You are doing important things, because taking care of people is not only a job for politicians," said Medvedev who is a known fan of rock music.

The Irish band U2 is in Russia for their first concert in the country on Wednesday, as part of their 360 world tour.

U2's 360 tour will also come to Australia. The concert will begin in Auckland's Mount Smart Stadium on November 25.

On December 1, the Irish band will play at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne, and make its way to Brisbane and Sydney. U2's Australian tour will conclude at Perth's Subiaco Oval on December 18.

Concert tickets for the Australian leg of U2's tour will start selling on September 3 with prices as low as $40 dollars. Susbscribers of U2.com will have the opportunity of a pre-sale.