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During a recent trip to Japan's capital, ex- American leader Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi shared warm praise and pledged to enhance the currently robust bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on becoming the nation's inaugural woman premier. During their talks at the capital's official venue, the former president voiced confidence that Takaichi would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of late Prime Minister Abe, applauded his initiatives to address global disputes and reportedly pledged to put forward Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

The two governments revealed a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are exploring investments of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier committed $550 billion in strategic US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to secure exemption from Trump's tariffs.

These actions are seen as possibly reducing any future demands from Trump for Tokyo to boost its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by committing to fast-track proposals to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other Political Developments

• Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is legally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to serve again but would not use a VP loophole.
• Michigan representative Tlaib reacted to his 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 leader of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in several regions are planning map changes in reaction to GOP efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” 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 American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, defense, and diplomatic fronts.