🔗 Share this article

In the course of a latest trip to Japan's capital, ex- US President Trump and Japan's recently elected Premier Takaichi shared warm compliments and pledged to enhance the already robust bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural female prime minister. During their discussions at the capital's official venue, Trump voiced confidence that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of late Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to resolve global disputes and according to sources pledged to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

The two nations revealed a list of joint initiatives in areas such as power, AI, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550 billion in strategic US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure relief from Trump's import duties.

These moves are seen as potentially reducing any upcoming demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by promising to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. He stated he ‘would like’ to run again but would not use a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of America’s largest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition leaders in several regions are planning redistricting in reaction to GOP actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Trump told Takaichi. “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 significance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for additional cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.