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In the course of a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Trump and the Japanese new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and pledged to strengthen the already robust bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first woman premier. In their discussions at the capital's official venue, the former president voiced optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's efforts to address global disputes and reportedly vowed to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Agreements

Both nations announced a series of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese firms are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Additionally, Japan had previously committed $550bn in strategic US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure relief from the former president's tariffs.

These actions are viewed as possibly easing any future demands from Trump for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by committing to accelerate plans to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional Political Updates

• Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is legally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to run again but won't use a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Tlaib responded to Trump's comments, 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 upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Johnson criticized opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition leaders in several states are planning redistricting in response to GOP actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump said to Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

This meeting highlights the continuing importance of the American-Japanese alliance and paves the way for further cooperation on trade, defense, and diplomatic fronts.