🔗 Share this article

During a latest visit to Japan's capital, ex- US President Donald Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and pledged to strengthen the already robust two-way relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural female premier. In their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed confidence that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

Takaichi, who is a protégée of former Japanese leader Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to resolve international disputes and reportedly vowed to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Deals

The two governments announced a series of collaborative projects in areas such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had previously pledged $550bn in long-term American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure relief from the former president's import duties.

These moves are seen as possibly easing any upcoming requests from the US side for Tokyo to increase its military expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by promising to fast-track proposals to increase military budget to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is legally impossible. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but won't exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib responded 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 leader of America’s largest federal workers union called for an end to the federal closure, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a special session to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition leaders in various regions are planning 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,” Donald Trump told the prime minister. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

The encounter underscores the ongoing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for further cooperation on economic, security, and foreign policy areas.