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During a recent visit to Tokyo, former US President Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Premier Sanae Takaichi shared friendly compliments and vowed to enhance the already robust two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first female premier. In their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced confidence that she would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of late Japanese leader Abe, applauded Trump's initiatives to address global conflicts and according to sources vowed to put forward Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

Both governments announced a list of collaborative projects in areas such as power, AI, and rare earths. Japanese firms are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously pledged $550 billion in strategic American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to secure relief from Trump's import duties.

Such actions are viewed as potentially easing any future requests from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by promising to accelerate proposals to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is constitutionally impossible. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to serve again but would not exploit a VP workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman 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 White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Braun announced a special session to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic figures in several regions are planning redistricting 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 Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

This meeting underscores the continuing importance of the American-Japanese alliance and sets the stage for further cooperation on economic, security, and diplomatic areas.