🔗 Share this article

In the course of a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- American leader Donald Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and pledged to strengthen the currently robust bilateral relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on assuming the role of Japan's inaugural woman premier. In their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump 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 Trump's initiatives to address international disputes and according to sources pledged to put forward Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Agreements

The two governments announced a series of joint initiatives in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are exploring investments of up to $400bn in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had earlier committed $550 billion in strategic US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain relief from the former president's import duties.

Such moves are viewed as potentially easing any upcoming demands from the US side for Tokyo to increase its military spending. Takaichi addressed this by promising to accelerate plans to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Other Political Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is legally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but won't use a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US largest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun declared a special session to redraw congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in several regions are considering redistricting in reaction to Republican actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald 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 alliance and paves the way for further collaboration on trade, security, and foreign policy areas.