🔗 Share this article

During a latest visit to Tokyo, ex- US President Trump and Japan's recently elected Premier Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and vowed to strengthen the already robust two-way ties.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first female prime minister. In their talks at Tokyo's official venue, Trump voiced confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded his initiatives to address global conflicts and according to sources vowed to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Security Deals

Both governments announced a list of joint projects in sectors such as power, AI, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400bn in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had earlier committed $550bn in strategic American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an agreement to secure relief from Trump's tariffs.

Such actions are seen as potentially easing any future demands from Trump for Tokyo to increase its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by promising to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, though it is constitutionally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would like’ to run again but would not exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US largest federal workers union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a special session to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition leaders in various regions are considering redistricting in reaction to GOP efforts.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” 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 continued.

The encounter highlights the ongoing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for additional cooperation on trade, security, and diplomatic areas.