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During a latest visit to Tokyo, former American leader Trump and Japan's recently elected Premier Takaichi shared warm compliments and vowed to strengthen the already strong two-way ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first female premier. In their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of late Japanese leader Abe, praised his efforts to resolve global conflicts and reportedly pledged to put forward Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

The two governments revealed a list of joint projects in areas such as energy, AI, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are exploring investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Japan had previously pledged $550bn in strategic American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure relief from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are seen as potentially easing any future requests from Trump for Tokyo to boost its defense expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by promising to fast-track proposals to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is constitutionally impossible. He stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not use a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The head of the US biggest federal workers union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in several states are planning map changes in reaction to Republican actions.

“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 added.

The encounter highlights the ongoing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for additional cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.