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During a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Donald Trump and the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and pledged to enhance the currently robust two-way ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural woman prime minister. In their talks at Tokyo's official venue, the former president voiced optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

Takaichi, who is a protégée of late Japanese leader Abe, applauded his efforts to address global conflicts and reportedly vowed to nominate him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Security Agreements

The two nations announced a series of joint initiatives in areas such as power, AI, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Tokyo had earlier committed $550bn in long-term US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from the former president's tariffs.

Such actions are seen as potentially easing any upcoming demands from Trump for Tokyo to boost its defense expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Other Political Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is legally impossible. Trump remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but won't use a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US biggest government employees union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader 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.
• Democratic figures in several regions are considering redistricting in reaction 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 also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

This encounter underscores the continuing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for additional collaboration on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.