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During a recent visit to Tokyo, former American leader Trump and the Japanese new Prime Minister Takaichi shared warm praise and pledged to enhance the already robust two-way relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's inaugural female premier. During their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed confidence that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of late Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to address global disputes and according to sources pledged to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Agreements

The two governments revealed a series of joint initiatives in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese companies are exploring investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier committed $550 billion in long-term US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure relief from the former president's import duties.

Such moves are seen as potentially reducing any upcoming requests from Trump for Japan to increase its defense spending. Takaichi addressed this by committing to fast-track plans to increase military budget to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Developments

• Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is legally impossible. He remarked he ‘would like’ to serve again but would not exploit a VP loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The head of America’s biggest federal workers union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition leaders in several regions are planning map changes in reaction to GOP actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Donald Trump said to Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

The meeting highlights the ongoing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for additional collaboration on trade, defense, and diplomatic areas.