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In the course of a latest trip to Japan's capital, ex- American leader Donald Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi shared warm praise and pledged to enhance the currently robust bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural female prime minister. During their talks at the capital's official venue, the former president voiced optimism that she would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, who is a protégée of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's efforts to address global disputes and according to sources vowed to put forward Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Security Deals

The two governments revealed a series of collaborative initiatives in areas such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japanese companies are considering funding of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Japan had previously committed $550bn in strategic American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from Trump's import duties.

These actions are seen as potentially easing any upcoming demands from Trump for Tokyo to boost its defense expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by committing to accelerate plans to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is legally impossible. He remarked he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in various states are planning redistricting in reaction to GOP 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 continued.

The meeting underscores the ongoing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for further cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy areas.