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In the course of a latest visit to Tokyo, ex- US President Trump together with Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi shared warm compliments and vowed to strengthen the already strong bilateral ties.

Key Points from the Meeting

Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first woman premier. In their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of late Prime Minister Abe, applauded his initiatives to resolve international disputes and reportedly vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

Both governments revealed a series of collaborative projects in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese companies are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had previously committed $550 billion in strategic American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure exemption from the former president's import duties.

These moves are seen as possibly reducing any future demands from the US side for Japan to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by promising to fast-track proposals to increase military budget to two percent of gross domestic product.

Other Political Developments

• Trump did not rule out to a third term, though it is constitutionally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to run again but won't use a VP loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib responded to Trump's comments, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US biggest federal workers union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in various regions are planning 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,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he added.

The meeting underscores the continuing importance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional cooperation on economic, security, and foreign policy areas.