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In the course of a latest trip to Japan's capital, former US President Trump together with Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and pledged to enhance the already robust bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural woman prime minister. During their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

Takaichi, who is a protégée of former Prime Minister Abe, praised Trump's efforts to address global disputes and according to sources vowed to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Security Agreements

The two governments revealed a series of joint projects in areas such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Additionally, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in strategic US investments, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure exemption from the former president's import duties.

These moves are seen as possibly reducing any future requests from Trump for Japan to boost its defense expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by committing to fast-track proposals to raise military budget to 2% of GDP.

Additional Political Developments

• Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not exploit a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, 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 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of the US largest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is now the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition leaders in several states 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,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

The meeting underscores the ongoing significance of the American-Japanese alliance and paves the way for additional cooperation on economic, security, and foreign policy fronts.