In his interview with Japan Up Close, Professor Daniel Mandell – Visiting Assistant Professor at Chicago-Kent College of Law – sheds light on the pivotal role of the Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) in strengthening Japan’s relationship with Pacific Island nations and the importance of listening and responding to their specific needs. Through detailed examples, Professor Mandell explores Japan's approach to development aid, security cooperation, and addressing diverse challenges in the region, and offers insights into the future evolution of these relationships.