🔗 Share this article

During a recent visit to Tokyo, former US President Donald Trump and Japan's recently elected Premier Takaichi shared friendly praise and pledged to strengthen the already robust two-way ties.

Key Points from the Meeting

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first woman prime minister. In their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's initiatives to address global disputes and reportedly pledged to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Agreements

The two nations revealed a list of joint projects in areas such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are exploring funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had previously committed $550bn in long-term American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure relief from the former president's tariffs.

Such moves are viewed as potentially easing any future requests from the US side for Japan to increase its defense expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by committing to fast-track proposals to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Updates

• Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is legally not permitted. He stated he ‘would like’ to serve again but won't exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan congresswoman Tlaib responded to his comments, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US largest government employees union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Braun announced a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in various states are planning map changes in reaction to Republican actions.

“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 added.

This meeting underscores the ongoing significance of the American-Japanese alliance and sets the stage for additional collaboration on trade, security, and foreign policy fronts.