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During a latest trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Donald Trump together with Japan's new Premier Sanae Takaichi shared friendly praise and vowed to strengthen the currently strong bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first female prime minister. In their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced optimism that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded his initiatives to resolve global disputes and reportedly vowed to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Security Deals

Both nations announced a list of joint projects in areas such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japanese companies are exploring investments of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had earlier committed $550bn in strategic American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from the former president's tariffs.

Such moves are viewed as potentially reducing any upcoming requests from Trump for Tokyo to increase its defense spending. Takaichi addressed this by committing to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Other Political Developments

• Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is constitutionally impossible. Trump remarked he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not use a VP loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested 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 government shutdown, which is now the second longest in US history.
• House Speaker Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in several regions are considering map changes in reaction to Republican actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

The encounter highlights the continuing significance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for additional cooperation on economic, defense, and diplomatic fronts.