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During a latest visit to Tokyo, ex- American leader Donald Trump together with the Japanese new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged warm praise and vowed to strengthen the currently strong bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

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

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of late Prime Minister Abe, praised his efforts to resolve international disputes and reportedly vowed to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Deals

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

Additionally, Japan had previously committed $550bn in long-term American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure exemption from the former president's import duties.

These moves are seen as potentially easing any upcoming requests from Trump for Japan to increase its defense expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by promising to fast-track plans to increase military budget to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, though it is legally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would like’ to run again but won't exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan congresswoman Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, saying, “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 leader of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in several regions are considering map changes in response to Republican efforts.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” 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.

The meeting highlights the ongoing importance of the American-Japanese alliance and paves the way for additional cooperation on trade, defense, and diplomatic fronts.