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During a latest trip to Japan's capital, former American leader Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged warm praise and pledged to enhance the already robust bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of Japan's first woman prime minister. During their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced confidence that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of former Prime Minister Abe, applauded his efforts to resolve global conflicts and reportedly vowed to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Agreements

Both governments revealed a series of joint initiatives in sectors such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are considering funding of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had earlier committed $550bn in long-term US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure relief from Trump's tariffs.

These actions are viewed as possibly reducing any upcoming demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military spending. The prime minister responded to this by promising to accelerate plans to raise military budget to two percent of GDP.

Other Political Developments

• Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but would not use a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to his statements, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of America’s largest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in several regions are considering redistricting in reaction to GOP efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump said to 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 importance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional cooperation on trade, security, and diplomatic areas.