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During a recent visit to Tokyo, former American leader Donald Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and vowed to strengthen the already strong bilateral ties.

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 inaugural woman premier. In their discussions at the capital's official venue, Trump expressed confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, who is a close associate of former Japanese leader Abe, praised Trump's efforts to address international conflicts and reportedly vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Deals

Both governments revealed a series of joint projects in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Tokyo had earlier pledged $550bn in strategic American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain relief from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are viewed as potentially easing any upcoming requests from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by promising to fast-track proposals to raise defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to serve again but would not exploit a VP workaround.
• Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will decide on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of the US largest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in various regions are considering redistricting in response 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 the prime minister. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

The meeting highlights the ongoing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for additional cooperation on economic, security, and diplomatic fronts.