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In the course of a latest visit to Japan's capital, former American leader Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi shared warm praise and vowed to enhance the currently robust two-way relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first female prime minister. During their talks at the capital's official venue, the former president expressed confidence that she would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of former Japanese leader Abe, applauded his initiatives to address global conflicts and reportedly pledged to put forward Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

The two governments revealed a series of joint initiatives in areas such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japanese companies are exploring funding of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had earlier committed $550bn in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain relief from the former president's tariffs.

Such moves are seen as potentially easing any future demands from Trump for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. Takaichi addressed this by committing to accelerate plans to increase military budget to 2% of gross domestic product.

Other Political Developments

• Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is legally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would like’ to run again but would not use a VP loophole.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of the US largest government employees union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in various regions are considering redistricting in reaction 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 the prime minister. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

This encounter underscores the continuing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for further cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.