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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, former US President Donald Trump and the Japanese new Premier Takaichi shared warm praise and vowed to enhance the currently strong two-way ties.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first woman prime minister. During their talks at Tokyo's official venue, the former president voiced optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

Takaichi, who is a close associate of late Prime Minister Abe, praised his efforts to resolve international disputes and reportedly pledged to nominate him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

The two governments revealed a series of collaborative projects in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese firms are exploring investments of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had previously pledged $550bn in long-term US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to secure relief from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are viewed as possibly reducing any upcoming requests from the US side for Tokyo to increase its defense expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by promising to fast-track proposals to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is constitutionally impossible. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to serve again but won't exploit a VP loophole.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted to his comments, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of the US biggest government employees union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a special session to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in various states are considering map changes in reaction to Republican actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

This encounter highlights the continuing significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for further collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy fronts.