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

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first female premier. In their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced optimism that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised his efforts to resolve global conflicts and according to sources pledged to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Security Deals

Both governments announced a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, AI, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier committed $550bn in long-term American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain relief from Trump's tariffs.

These actions are seen as possibly reducing any future demands from Trump for Japan to boost its defense spending. Takaichi addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Additional Political Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is constitutionally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would like’ to serve again but won't use a VP loophole.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, saying, “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 upcoming elections.
• The head of America’s biggest government employees 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 Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in various regions are considering redistricting in response to Republican 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 highlights the continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for additional cooperation on economic, security, and diplomatic areas.