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During a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Donald Trump and the Japanese recently elected Premier Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and pledged to strengthen the already strong bilateral relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and applauded her on becoming Japan's first female prime minister. During their talks at Tokyo's official venue, Trump expressed confidence that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised his initiatives to resolve global conflicts and according to sources pledged to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Defense Agreements

The two nations revealed a list of joint projects in sectors such as energy, AI, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550 billion in long-term American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure exemption from Trump's tariffs.

These actions are viewed as possibly easing any future demands from Trump for Japan to increase its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by promising to accelerate plans to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other Political Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is legally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't exploit a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib responded to his comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of the US biggest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition leaders in several regions are planning redistricting in response to GOP actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Donald Trump told the prime minister. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

This meeting highlights the ongoing importance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for further cooperation on economic, defense, and diplomatic fronts.