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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, former American leader Trump and the Japanese new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and pledged to strengthen the already strong bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first female prime minister. In their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced confidence that she would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of late Japanese leader Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to address global disputes and according to sources pledged to nominate him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

The two nations announced a list of joint projects in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese companies are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously pledged $550 billion in long-term American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from the former president's import duties.

These actions are seen as possibly reducing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to increase its defense spending. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track plans to increase military budget to two percent of GDP.

Other US Politics Updates

• Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is constitutionally not permitted. He stated he ‘would love’ to run again but won't use a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to his statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The head of America’s biggest federal workers union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in several states are planning map changes in response to Republican efforts.

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

The encounter highlights the continuing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for additional collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy areas.