🔗 Share this article

During a latest visit to Japan's capital, former US President Donald Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi shared friendly compliments and pledged to enhance the currently robust bilateral ties.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on becoming Japan's first female prime minister. During their talks at the capital's official venue, the former president voiced confidence that she would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of late Japanese leader Abe, applauded Trump's initiatives to address international disputes and according to sources vowed to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Agreements

The two nations revealed a series of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, AI, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had earlier pledged $550 billion in long-term US investments, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from the former president's import duties.

These actions are seen as possibly reducing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to increase its military spending. The prime minister addressed this by committing to accelerate proposals to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional Political Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is legally impossible. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to serve again but would not use a VP loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to his statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The head of the US largest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in several states are considering redistricting in reaction 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 added.

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