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During a latest trip to Tokyo, former US President Donald Trump together with the Japanese new Premier Sanae Takaichi shared warm praise and vowed to enhance the already strong two-way relations.

Key Points from the Meeting

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural female prime minister. During their talks at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a close associate of late Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded his initiatives to address international conflicts and reportedly pledged to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Security Agreements

The two governments announced a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japanese firms are considering funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously pledged $550 billion in long-term American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure exemption from the former president's tariffs.

These moves are viewed as potentially easing any upcoming demands from the US side for Japan to increase its military expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by promising to fast-track proposals to raise military budget to two percent of GDP.

Other Political Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but won't use a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s largest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in several states are considering map changes in response to GOP actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump said to the prime minister. “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 significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for further cooperation on trade, defense, and foreign policy areas.