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During a recent visit to Japan's capital, ex- US President Trump and Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged warm praise and vowed to enhance the currently robust bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first female premier. During their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, the former president expressed optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised his initiatives to resolve global conflicts and reportedly pledged to nominate him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Security Deals

The two nations revealed a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are considering funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Japan had previously pledged $550bn in strategic US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure relief from the former president's tariffs.

Such actions are viewed as possibly easing any future requests from the US side for Tokyo to increase its military spending. Takaichi addressed this by committing to accelerate proposals to raise defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional Political Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is legally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't exploit a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s biggest federal workers union called for an end to the federal closure, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in various states are considering redistricting in reaction to Republican actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” 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 continued.

This encounter highlights the ongoing importance of the American-Japanese alliance and sets the stage for additional collaboration on economic, defense, and diplomatic areas.