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In the course of a recent trip to Japan's capital, ex- American leader Donald Trump and Japan's new Premier Sanae Takaichi shared friendly compliments and vowed to strengthen the already strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on assuming the role of Japan's first female prime minister. During their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to resolve global conflicts and according to sources pledged to nominate him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

The two governments revealed a list of joint initiatives in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are considering funding of up to $400bn in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain relief from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are seen as possibly easing any future requests from the US side for Japan to boost its military spending. Takaichi responded to this by committing to accelerate proposals to raise military budget to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional Political Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is constitutionally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib reacted to his statements, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid 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.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a special session to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in several regions are planning map changes in reaction to GOP efforts.

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

The meeting highlights the continuing importance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional cooperation on trade, defense, and foreign policy fronts.