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During a latest trip to Japan's capital, ex- US President Trump and Japan's recently elected Premier Sanae Takaichi shared warm praise and pledged to enhance the already strong bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's first woman premier. In their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, Trump voiced optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of late Prime Minister Abe, applauded his efforts to resolve global conflicts and reportedly pledged to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Deals

The two governments announced a list of collaborative initiatives in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are considering funding of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had previously committed $550 billion in long-term US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from Trump's import duties.

These actions are viewed as possibly reducing any upcoming demands from Trump for Tokyo to increase its military expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by promising to fast-track proposals to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Additional Political Developments

• Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is legally impossible. He remarked he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not exploit a VP loophole.
• Michigan representative Tlaib responded to Trump's comments, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The head of the US largest federal workers union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in several states are considering redistricting in response to GOP efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald Trump told the prime minister. “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 ongoing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.