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In the course of a latest visit to Tokyo, ex- US President Donald Trump together with the Japanese new Premier Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and pledged to enhance the currently robust bilateral ties.

Key Points from the Meeting

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on becoming the nation's first woman prime minister. During their talks at Tokyo's official venue, the former president voiced optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to address international disputes and reportedly vowed to put forward Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Agreements

Both governments announced a series of joint projects in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese companies are exploring funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Japan had previously committed $550 billion in long-term US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from Trump's import duties.

These actions are viewed as possibly reducing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to increase its military expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by promising to accelerate proposals to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional Political Updates

• Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. He stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not use a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib reacted to his statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US largest government employees 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 endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition leaders in various states are planning map changes in reaction to GOP efforts.

“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 added.

This encounter underscores the continuing significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for further collaboration on trade, security, and foreign policy areas.