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During a latest trip to Tokyo, former US President Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and pledged to strengthen the already strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on becoming the nation's inaugural female prime minister. During their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced confidence that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to resolve global disputes and reportedly vowed to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Deals

Both governments revealed a list of joint initiatives in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had previously committed $550 billion in long-term US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to secure exemption from the former president's tariffs.

Such moves are seen as possibly reducing any upcoming demands from Trump for Japan to increase its defense expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by committing to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional Political Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is legally not permitted. He stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't exploit a VP loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to his comments, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of America’s biggest government employees union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson blasted opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a special session to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in several regions 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,” Donald 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.

The meeting highlights the continuing importance of the US-Japan partnership and sets the stage for further cooperation on economic, defense, and diplomatic fronts.