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In the course of a latest visit to Tokyo, ex- American leader Donald Trump and Japan's new Premier Sanae Takaichi shared warm compliments and pledged to strengthen the already robust bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's first woman premier. During their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, the former president expressed optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised his efforts to address international disputes and reportedly pledged to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

The two governments revealed a series of joint initiatives in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese firms are exploring investments of up to $400 billion in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier pledged $550 billion in strategic US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure relief from the former president's import duties.

These moves are viewed as potentially easing any upcoming demands from Trump for Japan to boost its defense spending. Takaichi addressed this by promising to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other Political Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is constitutionally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't use a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will determine on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of America’s biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in several states are considering 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 said to Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he added.

The meeting underscores the ongoing importance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for further cooperation on trade, defense, and diplomatic fronts.