🔗 Share this article

During a recent trip to Tokyo, former US President Donald Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged warm praise and vowed to strengthen the currently robust two-way ties.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on assuming the role of Japan's first woman premier. During their talks at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised his initiatives to address global disputes and reportedly pledged to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Deals

Both governments announced a series of joint projects in areas such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japanese companies are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in long-term American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from Trump's tariffs.

These actions are viewed as possibly reducing any upcoming demands from the US side for Tokyo to increase its defense spending. The prime minister responded to this by committing to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional Political Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but won't exploit a VP workaround.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in several regions are considering map changes in reaction to GOP efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” 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.

This meeting underscores the continuing significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional collaboration on economic, security, and diplomatic areas.