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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, former US President Donald Trump together with the Japanese new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi shared friendly compliments and vowed to enhance the currently strong two-way ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on assuming the role of Japan's inaugural female prime minister. During their discussions at the capital's official venue, the former president voiced confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to resolve global conflicts and according to sources vowed to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Deals

Both nations revealed a series of joint initiatives in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese companies are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550 billion in long-term American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure relief from the former president's import duties.

These actions are seen as possibly easing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its defense spending. The prime minister addressed this by committing to accelerate plans to increase military budget to 2% of GDP.

Additional Political Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is legally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but won't exploit a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan representative Tlaib reacted to Trump's statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of America’s largest federal workers union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a special session to reconsider electoral maps.
• Opposition leaders in several regions are considering map changes in response to Republican efforts.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he added.

This meeting highlights the ongoing significance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for additional collaboration on trade, defense, and diplomatic areas.