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During a recent trip to Japan's capital, former US President Trump together with Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and vowed to strengthen the already strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's inaugural female premier. In their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, the former president expressed optimism that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's efforts to resolve global disputes and according to sources vowed to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

Both nations announced a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are considering funding of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550 billion in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure exemption from the former president's import duties.

Such actions are viewed as potentially reducing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military spending. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track plans to increase military budget to 2% of GDP.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is constitutionally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but would not exploit a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted to his statements, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will determine on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s largest federal workers union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson criticized Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw congressional districts.
• Democratic figures in various regions are planning map changes in response to Republican efforts.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Trump told the prime minister. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he added.

This encounter underscores the ongoing significance of the US-Japan partnership and sets the stage for further cooperation on economic, security, and diplomatic areas.