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During a latest trip to Tokyo, former American leader Donald Trump together with the Japanese new Prime Minister Takaichi shared warm compliments and vowed to strengthen the already robust two-way ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural female prime minister. In their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, who is a protégée of former Japanese leader Abe, praised his initiatives to resolve international conflicts and according to sources vowed to nominate him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Security Deals

Both governments announced a series of joint projects in sectors such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japanese companies are exploring funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had previously committed $550bn in long-term American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are seen as possibly easing any future demands from the US side for Japan to increase its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by promising to accelerate proposals to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is constitutionally impossible. He remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but won't exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib responded to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US biggest federal workers union called for an end to the federal closure, which is now the second longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in several states are planning redistricting in reaction to Republican efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump told Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

This meeting highlights the continuing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for additional cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy areas.