The poet will act as a cultural ambassador for the nation, creating works which promote the image of Wales.

Both England and Scotland already have their own national bards.

The appointed poet would hold the role for one year and their works would be read at ceremonial and official occasions. The language will alternate between Welsh and English.

Iestyn Davies, head of communications at the Arts Council of Wales, said: "As a country renowned for it literary heritage it is fitting that Wales should have its own national poet, creating new works that celebrate our successes, comment on our failures and raise the profile of Wales through literature."

'Cultural nationhood'

The announcement comes as the arts body Academi hosts its annual conference, Songs of Freedom, which looks at the question of politics, propaganda and freedom of speech.

Chief executive Peter Finch, who has previously called for the post's creation, welcomed the news.

"Wales is as much the land of poets as it is the land of song - the appointment of our first National Poet will bear this out," he said.

"England was first with its Poet Laureate, then Scotland with its Maker and now Wales - ample evidence of our growing cultural nationhood."

Some of the duties of the poet will include encouraging young people to take part in literary activities.