🔗 Share this article

During a latest trip to Japan's capital, ex- US President Trump and Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged warm praise and vowed to enhance the already strong bilateral ties.

Key Points from the Meeting

Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural woman premier. In their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised his initiatives to address global disputes and reportedly vowed to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

Both nations announced a list of collaborative initiatives in areas such as power, AI, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Furthermore, Japan had previously committed $550 billion in strategic American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain relief from the former president's tariffs.

Such actions are viewed as potentially easing any future demands from Trump for Japan to increase its defense expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional Political Developments

• Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is constitutionally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to serve again but would not use a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to his statements, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide 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 US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw congressional districts.
• Democratic figures in several states are considering redistricting in response to GOP actions.

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

The meeting underscores the ongoing significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for further collaboration on trade, defense, and diplomatic areas.