South African President Jacob Zuma sought Thursday to allay concerns about security at the 2010 World Cup, saying crime had already been cut and visitors would be protected. "The fact is we have brought down crime already. We are therefore very confident on this. And when we say we are ready now for the World Cup, we include security in that," Zuma said during his state visit to Britain.

"We are ready to protect those who come. If there are those who are sceptical or feel concern, they must know this matter has been addressed. "They will come to South Africa safely and leave safer," he added.