The South African government on Tuesday met with the country's business leadership to further build on the positive sentiment created by the successful hosting the first FIFA World Cup on African soil.

Speaking after the meeting in Pretoria, President Jacob Zuma said that investors from around the world had been given the opportunity to witness first hand the ability of the country and its citizens, but that it was now necessary to build on that momentum.

The infrastructure build programme, he said, would form one of the cornerstones for future growth in South Africa. "Even before the World Cup, government already committed R800-billion to the investment in future infrastructure."

Zuma noted that the meeting was called to "put the ideas of business and government into one pot", towards the improving the quality of life for all South Africans.

Business Unity South Africa president Futhi Mtoba said that one of the main issues on the agenda was that of an inclusive economy. "Government and business will be putting a strong focus on integrating rural development into the country's business sector and outlook."

Some of the business personalities spotted coming out of the meeting included AngloGold Ashanti CEO Mark Cutifani, Vodacom CEO Pieter Uys and Busa CEO Jerry Vilakazi.

Zuma said that an organising committee had been formed that would be in charge of orchestrating regular future events between the public and private sectors.

He added that government would also be looking at engaging in similar meetings with other sectors in the country.