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In the course of a latest visit to Tokyo, former American leader Donald Trump together with Japan's recently elected Premier Takaichi shared friendly compliments and vowed to enhance the already robust bilateral ties.

Key Points from the Meeting

Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on assuming the role of Japan's inaugural woman premier. In their talks at the capital's official venue, Trump voiced confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded his initiatives to address international conflicts and reportedly vowed to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

The two governments announced a list of collaborative projects in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had previously committed $550bn in strategic US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to secure exemption from Trump's tariffs.

Such actions are viewed as potentially easing any future requests from the US side for Japan to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by committing to accelerate proposals to increase defense spending to two percent of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is legally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not use a VP workaround.
• A Michigan representative 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 upcoming elections.
• The head of America’s biggest federal workers union called for an end to the federal closure, which is now the second longest in US history.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps.
• Opposition leaders 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,” 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 underscores the ongoing importance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for further collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy areas.