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During a latest visit to Japan's capital, ex- US President Donald Trump and the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and vowed to strengthen the already strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on becoming the nation's inaugural female premier. In their talks at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed confidence that she would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, who is a close associate of late Japanese leader Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to resolve global disputes and reportedly pledged to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

The two nations revealed a series of joint projects in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously pledged $550 billion in long-term American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from Trump's tariffs.

Such moves are viewed as possibly reducing any future requests from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military spending. The prime minister responded to this by promising to fast-track plans to raise military budget to two percent of gross domestic product.

Other Political Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is constitutionally impossible. He remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but would not use a VP loophole.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a special session to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in several regions are considering redistricting in response to Republican efforts.

“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 underscores the continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for further collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy fronts.