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During a latest visit to Japan's capital, ex- US President Trump together with Japan's new Premier Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and vowed to enhance the already strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on becoming the nation's first female premier. During their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, the former president voiced confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to address global conflicts and according to sources pledged to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

Both nations revealed a list of joint initiatives in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had previously pledged $550bn in long-term US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are seen as possibly reducing any future demands from Trump for Japan to increase its defense expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by committing to fast-track proposals to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Additional Political Updates

• Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is constitutionally impossible. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but won't use a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of the US largest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic figures in several regions are considering redistricting in response to GOP actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald Trump said to Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

This meeting highlights the continuing significance of the US-Japan alliance and paves the way for additional cooperation on economic, security, and foreign policy areas.