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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, former American leader Donald Trump together with Japan's recently elected Premier Takaichi exchanged warm praise and pledged to strengthen the currently strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's first female prime minister. In their discussions at the capital's official venue, the former president expressed optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, who is a close associate of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded his initiatives to address global disputes and according to sources pledged to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Deals

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

Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550 billion in strategic American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure exemption from the former president's tariffs.

These moves are seen as potentially reducing any upcoming demands from Trump for Tokyo to increase its military spending. Takaichi responded to this by committing to accelerate proposals to raise defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is constitutionally impossible. He remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but would not use a VP workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will decide on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s biggest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in various states are planning redistricting in response to Republican efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” 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 underscores the ongoing importance of the US-Japan alliance and paves the way for further cooperation on economic, security, and diplomatic areas.