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In the course of a recent visit to Tokyo, ex- American leader Trump and Japan's new Premier Takaichi shared friendly compliments and pledged to strengthen the already robust two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on becoming the nation's inaugural female premier. In their talks at the capital's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of late Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised his efforts to resolve international conflicts and according to sources vowed to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Defense Agreements

The two governments revealed a list of joint projects in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Japan had earlier committed $550bn in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from Trump's tariffs.

These moves are seen as potentially easing any upcoming requests from Trump for Japan to boost its defense expenditure. Takaichi addressed this by promising to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is legally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't use a VP workaround.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded 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 leader of America’s biggest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Braun announced a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic figures in several states are considering map changes 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 said to Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

The encounter highlights the continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for further collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy areas.