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During a recent trip to Tokyo, former US President Donald Trump and Japan's new Premier Sanae Takaichi exchanged warm praise and vowed to enhance the currently strong two-way ties.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first female prime minister. During their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, the former president expressed optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, who is a protégée of late Prime Minister Abe, praised his initiatives to resolve international disputes and reportedly pledged to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

Both governments announced a list of collaborative projects in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in long-term US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure relief from Trump's tariffs.

Such moves are seen as possibly easing any future demands from Trump for Japan to increase its military spending. Takaichi addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to raise military budget to 2% of GDP.

Additional Political Updates

• Trump did not rule out to a third term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but would not use a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run 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 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 Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in various states are considering redistricting in reaction to Republican efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump told the prime minister. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he added.

This meeting underscores the continuing significance of the US-Japan alliance and paves the way for further collaboration on economic, security, and diplomatic fronts.