TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Director Sandra Oudkirk received the Grand Medal of Diplomacy from Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) at the end of her three years in Taipei Tuesday (July 2).

AIT already announced that Raymond Greene would succeed Oudkirk during the summer. Lin praised her contributions to the development of bilateral partnerships, including 15 arms deals and support for Taiwan’s bid to expand its participation in international organizations.

The foreign minister said that during Oudkirk’s tenure, Taiwan and the United States made unprecedented progress in the areas of security, trade, culture, and international relations, per Radio Taiwan International (RTI).

He singled out the signing of the first phase of the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative for 21st Century Trade, the success of the Global Cooperation and Training Framework, and the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Development and Humanitarian Assistance Cooperation.

Oudkirk mentioned the expansion and deepening of U.S.-Taiwan relations during the past three years despite the emergence of more complex challenges. The relationship will become even stronger because of common views on freedom, openness, prosperity, and peace for the region, she said.

Oudkirk described moving as an integral part of her career, but rather than “goodbye,” she preferred saying “see you later.”