Hillary Clinton delivered a wrenching concession speech on Wednesday, wishing President-elect Donald J Trump success as president but holding firm to the message and ideals that were central to her historic bid, a report said.

Clinton told staff members and supporters that while she shared in their anguish, the moment demanded a call for national healing, New York Times reported.

“This is painful, and it will be for a long time,” she said. “But I want you to remember this: Our campaign was never about one person or even one election. It was about the country we love and about building an America that’s hopeful, inclusive and big-hearted.”

“Donald Trump is going to be our president,” she said at the New Yorker Hotel in Manhattan. “We owe him an open mind and the chance to lead. Our constitutional democracy enshrines the peaceful transfer of power. And we don’t just respect that, we cherish it.”

She spoke of lifting up immigrants and people of all races, Americans with disabilities and those who are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. She addressed youths, reminding them that her long career had been filled with successes and setbacks in full measure.

“You will have successes and setbacks, too,” she said. “This loss hurts, but please never stop believing that fighting for what’s right is worth it.”

“It is,” she added amid cheers. “It is worth it.”

“Nothing has made me prouder than to be your champion,” she said. “Never doubt that you are valuable and powerful and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue and achieve your own dreams.”

Clinton’s husband, daughter and running mate stood on stage beside her, clapping throughout.

The remarks on Wednesday came hours after an early-morning conversation from her to Trump, conceding the presidential race.