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In the course of a recent trip to Japan's capital, ex- US President Trump and Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and pledged to enhance the currently strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on becoming the nation's first woman premier. During their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of late Prime Minister Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to resolve international disputes and according to sources vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

Both nations revealed a series of joint projects in areas such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had previously committed $550bn in strategic US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from the former president's import duties.

Such actions are viewed as potentially reducing any upcoming demands from Trump for Japan to boost its defense expenditure. Takaichi addressed this by promising to accelerate plans to increase military budget to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Developments

• Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is constitutionally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would like’ to serve again but would not use a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The head of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson blasted Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in several states are planning map changes in response to GOP efforts.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” 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.

The encounter underscores the ongoing significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for further cooperation on trade, security, and diplomatic fronts.