Taiwan's president Tsai Ing-wen became the first who formally apologized to aboriginals  for 400 years of conquest and colonization, ABC reported.

Taiwan's indigenous people make about 2% of the population of the island now.  They have repeatedly complained about the loss of ancient lands and inability to stick to the traditional way of life. Many representatives of these nations speak Austronesian languages, although some partially or fully switched to Chinese.

Tsai met with the leaders of 16 ethnic groups and made a photo. The ritual ceremony with an exchange of gifts took place during the meeting. The representatives of the nations arrived in traditional dresses with festive headdresses.

In addition, the press office of Tsai announced the creation of a special Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, which will be first headed by the president .