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In the course of a recent visit to Japan's capital, former American leader Donald Trump together with Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi shared warm compliments and pledged to strengthen the already robust bilateral relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's inaugural woman premier. During their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised his initiatives to address international disputes and reportedly vowed to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

Both nations announced a series of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japanese companies are considering investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in strategic US investments, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure relief from Trump's import duties.

These actions are viewed as possibly easing any upcoming requests from Trump for Tokyo to increase its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by promising to fast-track plans to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Additional Political Developments

• Trump did not rule out to a another term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. He stated he ‘would like’ to serve again but won't use a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to his statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US largest federal workers union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in several states are planning redistricting in reaction to Republican efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

This encounter underscores the continuing significance of the American-Japanese alliance and sets the stage for additional cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy areas.