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In the course of a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- American leader Trump together with Japan's recently elected Premier Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and pledged to strengthen the currently strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural woman premier. During their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of late Prime Minister Abe, praised his efforts to resolve global disputes and according to sources pledged to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Agreements

The two nations announced a list of joint initiatives in sectors such as energy, AI, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier committed $550bn in strategic US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are seen as possibly reducing any future requests from Trump for Japan to increase its military spending. Takaichi addressed this by promising to accelerate plans to raise military budget to two percent of GDP.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, though it is legally impossible. He remarked he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not exploit a VP loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s largest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition leaders in several states are considering map changes in reaction to Republican 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.

The encounter highlights the ongoing significance of the US-Japan alliance and paves the way for additional collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy areas.