🔗 Share this article

In the course of a latest trip to Japan's capital, ex- American leader Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and pledged to enhance the already robust two-way relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural female premier. During their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

Takaichi, who is a protégée of late Prime Minister Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to resolve international conflicts and according to sources vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

The two governments announced a series of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously committed $550bn in strategic US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from Trump's tariffs.

These actions are viewed as possibly reducing any future requests from Trump for Tokyo to increase its defense spending. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is legally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would like’ to serve again but would not exploit a VP loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to his statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US largest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson blasted Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Braun declared a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in several regions are considering map changes in reaction to Republican actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump said to Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

This encounter underscores the ongoing significance of the American-Japanese alliance and paves the way for additional cooperation on economic, security, and foreign policy areas.