🔗 Share this article

In the course of a latest trip to Japan's capital, former US President Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Premier Sanae Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and pledged to strengthen the already robust bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first female premier. In their talks at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of late Japanese leader Abe, applauded his initiatives to address global conflicts and reportedly vowed to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Security Agreements

Both governments announced a series of collaborative projects in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are exploring funding of up to $400bn in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier pledged $550bn in long-term US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are viewed as potentially reducing any future requests from Trump for Japan to increase its military spending. Takaichi addressed this by promising 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 like’ to run again but would not exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The head of America’s largest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second longest in US history.
• House Speaker Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition leaders in various states 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,” 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 continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for additional collaboration on economic, security, and diplomatic fronts.