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During a recent visit to Tokyo, former US President Donald Trump together with Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and vowed to enhance the currently robust two-way ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural woman premier. In their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, who is a close associate of former Japanese leader Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to resolve international disputes and reportedly vowed to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Agreements

Both nations revealed a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japanese firms are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously pledged $550bn in long-term US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain relief from the former president's tariffs.

These moves are seen as potentially reducing any upcoming demands from the US side for Tokyo to increase its defense expenditure. Takaichi addressed this by promising to fast-track plans to raise military budget to two percent of GDP.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is constitutionally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan congresswoman Tlaib responded to Trump's comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will decide on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The head of America’s biggest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic figures in various states are considering redistricting in reaction to GOP actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” 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 underscores the continuing importance of the US-Japan alliance and paves the way for additional cooperation on trade, security, and diplomatic fronts.