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During a recent visit to Tokyo, former American leader Trump together with the Japanese new Prime Minister Takaichi shared friendly compliments and pledged to enhance the already robust bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on assuming the role of Japan's first woman premier. In their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president expressed optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of late Prime Minister Abe, praised his efforts to address global disputes and reportedly vowed to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Agreements

Both nations revealed a list of collaborative projects in sectors such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400 billion in the US.

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

Such moves are viewed as possibly easing any upcoming demands from the US side for Japan to increase its military spending. The prime minister responded to this by committing to fast-track proposals to raise military budget to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional Political Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is constitutionally not permitted. He stated he ‘would love’ to run again but won't exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to his comments, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will determine on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s largest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson blasted Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition leaders in several states are planning 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 told the prime minister. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

This meeting highlights the ongoing significance of the US-Japan partnership and sets the stage for additional cooperation on economic, security, and diplomatic fronts.