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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Trump and the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and pledged to strengthen the already strong two-way relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural female prime minister. In their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, the former president expressed confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of former Prime Minister Abe, applauded Trump's initiatives to address international disputes and reportedly pledged to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

The two nations revealed a list of joint projects in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are considering funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in strategic American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain relief from the former president's import duties.

Such actions are viewed as potentially easing any future demands from the US side for Japan to increase its defense spending. Takaichi addressed this by committing to accelerate plans to raise military budget to two percent of GDP.

Other Political Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is legally impossible. He stated he ‘would like’ to run again but won't use a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan representative Tlaib responded to his statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s largest government employees union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in various states are planning redistricting in response to Republican actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Trump told Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

This encounter underscores the continuing significance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, security, and diplomatic areas.