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During a recent visit to Tokyo, former US President Trump and the Japanese new Premier Sanae Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and pledged to enhance the already strong two-way relations.

Key Points from the Meeting

Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's first female prime minister. During their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, the former president voiced optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

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

Economic and Defense Deals

The two nations revealed a series of collaborative initiatives in areas such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japanese companies are considering funding of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had earlier pledged $550bn in long-term American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to secure relief from the former president's import duties.

These actions are viewed as possibly reducing any future demands from Trump for Tokyo to increase its defense expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by promising to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is legally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but won't use a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of America’s biggest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in several regions are planning map changes in response to Republican efforts.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Trump said to Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

This encounter highlights the ongoing importance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for additional cooperation on trade, security, and diplomatic areas.