🔗 Share this article

During a latest visit to Japan's capital, ex- American leader Trump and Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and pledged to enhance the currently strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and applauded her on becoming Japan's inaugural female premier. During their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, the former president expressed optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of former Japanese leader Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to address international disputes and reportedly pledged to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Agreements

The two governments revealed a series of collaborative initiatives in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese companies are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously pledged $550 billion in long-term American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to secure relief from the former president's import duties.

Such moves are viewed as possibly reducing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to increase its defense expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by committing to fast-track plans to raise military budget to 2% of GDP.

Other Political Updates

• Trump did not rule out to a another term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. He stated he ‘would like’ to run again but won't use a VP loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of America’s biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is now the second longest in US history.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in various regions are planning map changes in response to GOP efforts.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Donald Trump told the prime minister. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he added.

This meeting highlights the continuing significance of the US-Japan alliance and paves the way for further collaboration on economic, security, and diplomatic areas.