Ma was speaking at the Chung Tai Buddhist Monastery in central Taiwan on Sunday. He was participating in a ceremony to welcome the arrival of spring.

Ma said that Buddhist teachings have had an enormous impact on Taiwanese society. He also said that if Buddhism in China develops the way it has in Taiwan, it would have a very positive effect on China.

The president also prayed for the well-being of Taiwan's people and for peace on both sides of the strait.