🔗 Share this article

In the course of a latest visit to Tokyo, former American leader Trump and Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and vowed to enhance the already robust bilateral ties.

Key Points from the Meeting

Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on becoming the nation's inaugural woman prime minister. In their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of late Prime Minister Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to resolve international disputes and according to sources pledged to put forward him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Agreements

The two nations announced a series of joint initiatives in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese companies are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had earlier pledged $550 billion in long-term US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from Trump's tariffs.

These moves are viewed as potentially easing any future demands from the US side for Japan to increase its defense expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track plans to raise military budget to two percent of GDP.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is legally impossible. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but would not use a VP loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of America’s biggest federal workers union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Braun announced a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition leaders in various regions are planning map changes in reaction to GOP efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald Trump said to the prime minister. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

This encounter highlights the ongoing significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for further cooperation on trade, security, and foreign policy fronts.