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In the course of a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- American leader Trump and the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi shared friendly compliments and vowed to enhance the currently strong bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Meeting

Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of Japan's first female premier. In their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of former Prime Minister Abe, praised his initiatives to address international disputes and according to sources vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Defense Agreements

The two nations revealed a series of joint projects in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are considering funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier committed $550 billion in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from the former president's tariffs.

These actions are viewed as possibly easing any upcoming demands from the US side for Japan to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Other US Politics Updates

• Trump did not rule out to a third term, though it is constitutionally impossible. He stated he ‘would love’ to run again but would not use a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib responded to Trump's comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of America’s biggest government employees union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun declared a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic figures in various states are planning map changes in response to Republican actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump said to Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

This meeting underscores the continuing importance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for additional collaboration on trade, security, and diplomatic areas.