President Jacob Zuma has called on all African leaders to come to South Africa during the FIFA World Cup in June this year. He made his call at Tuynhuys in Parliament while welcoming seven new African ambassadors.

Ghana's Higher Commissioner Lee Ocran, Ivory Coast's Zogoe Brice Abie and Sri Lankan High Commissioner, Wije Singh, were among diplomats welcomed by the President. Zuma said he was confident that their stay in the country would strengthen political and economic relations.

The President said Africa's prosperity and development depended on the support of other countries. He added that the importance of healthy relations between these nations is crucial for the continent. According to the presidency, South Africa has the second highest number of ambassadors in the world. It follows the United States of America.

The fourth round of ticket sales for the FIFA 2010 Soccer World Cup gets underway today. 2010 Local Organising Committee spokesperson Rich Mkhondo says 79% of the tickets sold have been snapped up by South Africans. He says during the next round, almost 400 000 tickets will be available.