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In the course of a recent visit to Tokyo, ex- US President Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged warm praise and vowed to enhance the currently robust two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first woman premier. During their talks at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to resolve international disputes and reportedly pledged to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

Both nations announced a list of collaborative projects in areas such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400 billion 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 import duties.

Such actions are viewed as possibly easing any upcoming demands from Trump for Tokyo to boost its defense spending. Takaichi addressed this by committing to accelerate proposals to raise defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Other Political Updates

• Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would like’ to run again but would not use a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is now the second longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a special session to redraw congressional districts.
• Democratic figures in several states are considering map changes in reaction to GOP actions.

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

The meeting highlights the continuing importance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy areas.