Taipei, Nov. 29 (CNA) President Ma Ying-jeou said Saturday that as long as Taiwan people do not lose heart during the current economic downturn and they retain their core values, they will be able to weather the financial storm.

The president made the remarks at the 8th National Prayer Breakfast at the Taipei International Convention Center.

Also attending were opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Chairwoman Tsai Ing-wen and Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin. Ma, who had earlier proposed a meeting with Tsai, shook hands with her upon his arrival at the venue.

Ma said the government will continue to work hard, knowing that the public has high expectations for a clean government.

He also said that the government will work toward realizing the public’s wishes for a harmonious society, a prosperous economy and the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

“As long as the core values of the Taiwan people — goodness, integrity, tolerance and determination — remain intact, there is hope for Taiwan,” the president said.

He said that once these values are not lost, “we are confident we can overcome any storms we may encounter.”

Switching to the Taiwanese dialect, the president noted that Taiwan is currently in an economic downturn and the people are living in hardship.

But he urged the public not to lose heart, saying that “with the intelligence and diligence of the Taiwan people, we will surely tide over these financial difficulties.” (By Lilian Wu) Enditem/ pc