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During a latest visit to Tokyo, former American leader Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and vowed to strengthen the currently strong bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Meeting

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's inaugural woman prime minister. During their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, who is a close associate of former Prime Minister Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to address international disputes and reportedly vowed to put forward him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Deals

Both governments revealed a series of joint projects in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had previously committed $550 billion in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from Trump's tariffs.

These moves are seen as possibly easing any upcoming demands from the US side for Tokyo to increase its military spending. Takaichi addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to increase military budget to two percent of GDP.

Other Political Updates

• Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is legally impossible. He stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not use a VP loophole.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib reacted to his statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of America’s largest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson blasted opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Braun declared a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in several regions are planning map changes in response to GOP actions.

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

This encounter highlights the continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for additional collaboration on trade, defense, and diplomatic areas.