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During a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- American leader Donald Trump and the Japanese recently elected Premier Sanae Takaichi exchanged warm praise and vowed to strengthen the already robust two-way ties.

Highlights from the Encounter

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and applauded her on becoming Japan's inaugural female prime minister. In their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded his initiatives to address global disputes and according to sources pledged to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Security Agreements

Both governments revealed a list of collaborative initiatives in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based companies are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously pledged $550 billion in long-term US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from Trump's import duties.

Such actions are seen as possibly easing any upcoming requests from Trump for Tokyo to boost its military spending. Takaichi addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Other US Politics Developments

• Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is legally impossible. He remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but would not use a VP workaround.
• A Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to Trump's statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US biggest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson criticized opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun declared a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in several regions are planning map changes in reaction to GOP efforts.

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

The encounter highlights the continuing significance of the American-Japanese alliance and paves the way for further cooperation on economic, defense, and diplomatic areas.