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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Trump together with Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi shared friendly praise and pledged to strengthen the already robust bilateral ties.

Key Points from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural female prime minister. During their talks at Tokyo's official venue, Trump expressed confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded his efforts to resolve international disputes and according to sources vowed to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Agreements

The two nations announced a series of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier committed $550 billion in strategic US investments, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure exemption from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are seen as potentially easing any upcoming demands from Trump for Tokyo to increase its military spending. The prime minister addressed this by promising to fast-track proposals to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Other Political Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is legally impossible. Trump remarked he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't exploit a VP loophole.
• Michigan representative Tlaib reacted to his comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of the US biggest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson blasted opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in various regions 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,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he added.

This encounter underscores the ongoing significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional collaboration on economic, defense, and diplomatic fronts.