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In the course of a latest visit to Japan's capital, former US President Donald Trump and the Japanese new Premier Sanae Takaichi shared warm compliments and vowed to strengthen the already strong bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's first woman premier. During their discussions at the capital's official venue, the former president voiced confidence that she would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, who is a close associate of late Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's efforts to resolve international disputes and reportedly vowed to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Deals

Both nations announced a series of collaborative initiatives in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously pledged $550bn in long-term American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from Trump's tariffs.

Such moves are seen as possibly easing any future demands from the US side for Japan to boost its defense expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by committing to accelerate plans to increase military budget to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional Political Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is legally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but won't use a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan representative Tlaib reacted to his comments, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US biggest government employees union called for an end to the federal closure, which is now the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson blasted Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in several regions are planning redistricting 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 told the prime minister. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

This encounter underscores the continuing significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional collaboration on trade, security, and diplomatic fronts.