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During a latest trip to Tokyo, ex- American leader Donald Trump together with the Japanese new Premier Takaichi shared friendly praise and vowed to strengthen the already strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural woman premier. During their talks at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to resolve international disputes and reportedly vowed to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Agreements

Both governments announced a series of collaborative projects in sectors such as power, AI, and rare earths. Japanese companies are considering funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in strategic American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from the former president's tariffs.

Such moves are viewed as possibly easing any upcoming requests from the US side for Tokyo to increase its defense expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by committing to fast-track proposals to raise defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Other Political Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is constitutionally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't exploit a VP workaround.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The head of the US largest government employees union called for an end to the federal closure, which is now the second longest in US history.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a special session to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in various states are considering redistricting in response to Republican efforts.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he added.

The meeting highlights the continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for further cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.