On December 30, 2025, Ambassador Jessica C. Lee attended a grand farewell dinner hosted by the Office of the President of the Republic of Palau at the Palau Royal Resort.
Distinguished guests included President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. and the First Lady, Vice President Raynold “Arnold” Oilouch, the Southern Queen (Bilung), representatives of the Council of Chiefs, Cabinet ministers, members of Congress, state governors, officials from the Ministry of State, Joel Ehrendreich, Ambassador of the United States to Palau, and Toby Sharpe, Ambassador of Australia to Palau, and Alan Seid, Vice president of Micronesian Voyaging Society together reflecting the strong international recognition of Ambassador Lee’s contributions over the past four years. 
Minister of State Gustav Aitaro expressed heartfelt appreciation for Ambassador Lee’s steadfast partnership with Palau during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that true friendship is forged in times of hardship. Ambassador Lee shared moving reflections, including a late-night call from President Whipps requesting assistance for an 18-year-old Palauan youth to receive urgent surgery in Taiwan, underscoring Taiwan’s genuine care for the Palauan people. She also highlighted her close engagement with traditional chiefs—emphasizing that Taiwan and Palau are one family—as well as her long-standing cooperation with the Southern Queen and women’s organizations. 
President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. described Taiwan–Palau relations as a marriage—steadfast and enduring. He highlighted shared achievements in medical cooperation, the successful hosting of the Our Ocean Conference during the pandemic, expanded China Airlines flights to four per week, increased tourism arrivals, strengthened sports exchanges with outstanding results at the Pacific Mini Games, and continued collaboration toward future Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) initiatives.
The President also noted that Minister Lin is among the ministers who visit Palau most frequently, often accompanied by Taiwanese business leaders, demonstrating Taiwan’s firm support for Palau’s development. He further stated that Palau finds China’s recent unannounced military drills targeting Taiwan unacceptable, and expressed his hope that the Taiwan–Palau partnership, like a strong marriage, will endure for many years to come. 
Minister of Public Infrastructure and Industries Obiang presented Ambassador Lee with a traditional Palauan women’s first-child attire, specially designed in the colors of the Palauan and ROC (Taiwan) flags, symbolizing deep gratitude and friendship. 
The House Floor Leader also read a formal resolution commending Ambassador Lee’s service and dedication.
President and First Lady Whipps, the Governors of Ngapant and Airai, Minister Aitaro and Vice President of MVS Alan Seid each presented meaningful gifts in appreciation of Ambassador Lee’s long-standing contributions. 
The evening concluded with a tribute video honoring Ambassador Lee, bringing the farewell dinner to a heartfelt and memorable close. 
