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In the course of a latest trip to Japan's capital, ex- US President Trump and the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and pledged to strengthen the currently robust two-way relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural female premier. In their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced confidence that Takaichi would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded his efforts to address global disputes and according to sources pledged to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Agreements

Both governments announced a series of collaborative projects in areas such as power, AI, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously committed $550 billion in long-term American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from the former president's import duties.

These actions are seen as possibly easing any future demands from Trump for Japan to increase its military spending. The prime minister responded to this by promising to accelerate proposals to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Additional Political Updates

• Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is legally not permitted. He stated he ‘would like’ to serve again but would not exploit 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 determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US biggest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in several regions are planning map changes in response to Republican actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump said to Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

This encounter underscores the ongoing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, security, and foreign policy areas.