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During a latest trip to Tokyo, ex- American leader Donald Trump together with Japan's recently elected Premier Sanae Takaichi shared friendly praise and vowed to enhance the already strong bilateral relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first woman premier. During their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, Trump expressed confidence that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

Takaichi, who is a protégée of former Prime Minister Abe, applauded his efforts to address global conflicts and according to sources pledged to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

The two governments revealed a list of joint projects in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier committed $550bn in long-term American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure exemption from Trump's tariffs.

Such moves are viewed as potentially easing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. Takaichi addressed this by promising to accelerate proposals to increase military budget to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is legally impossible. He remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but would not exploit a VP loophole.
• Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition 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 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 underscores the continuing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for additional cooperation on trade, security, and diplomatic areas.