🔗 Share this article

In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, former US President Trump together with Japan's new Premier Takaichi exchanged warm praise and pledged to enhance the already robust bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural female prime minister. During their discussions at the capital's official venue, the former president expressed confidence that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's efforts to address international conflicts and according to sources pledged to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Security Deals

Both nations revealed a list of joint projects in sectors such as power, AI, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

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

Such actions are viewed as possibly reducing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by committing to accelerate proposals to increase military budget to 2% of GDP.

Other Political Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. He stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't use a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US largest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic figures in various states are considering 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,” Donald Trump told the prime minister. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

This encounter underscores the ongoing significance of the US-Japan partnership and sets the stage for further cooperation on trade, defense, and foreign policy areas.