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In the course of a latest visit to Japan's capital, former US President Donald Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and vowed to strengthen the already robust two-way relations.

Key Points from the Meeting

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural female prime minister. In their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, Trump voiced confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to resolve global disputes and according to sources pledged to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Agreements

The two nations revealed a series of joint initiatives in areas such as energy, AI, and critical minerals. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Furthermore, Japan had previously pledged $550 billion in strategic US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure exemption from the former president's tariffs.

These actions are seen as potentially reducing any future requests from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military spending. The prime minister responded to this by promising to fast-track proposals to raise military budget to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, though it is constitutionally impossible. He remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but would not use a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of the US largest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in several states are considering redistricting in reaction to GOP efforts.

“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 highlights the ongoing importance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for further cooperation on economic, security, and diplomatic areas.