Zuma invites the world to experience Africa

"It is an opportunity to tackle stereotypes and preconceptions about the continent, and explore new frontiers of interaction and cooperation. It is an important milestone in the regeneration of the continent."

Zuma said the South African Government and its partners have been working hard to ensure that the event was a success.

South Africa is ready for business and for football fans from around the globe, he said.

"Other than the football games that South Africans will be privileged to be part of, the country's potential as a destination for business, trade and tourism will be on display during the World Cup tournament."

Zuma also informed the gathering that this year was an important year for the country, because it will be marking the 20th anniversary of the release of former President Nelson Mandela from prison.

He said the decades of the struggle against apartheid by South Africans, supported by Africa and the world, had yielded results.

Among others he mentioned the country's sound macroeconomic policies, effective regulatory environment, and sustained political and social stability, saying they continued to make South Africa a candidate for even greater and faster economic growth.

"These are strengths on which we continue to build, identifying opportunities and confronting challenges.

"We cannot think of any logistical hurdles that cannot be overcome. South Africa is truly ready for business and for football fans from around the globe."