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In the course of a latest visit to Tokyo, ex- American leader Donald Trump together with Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and vowed to enhance the currently robust two-way ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and applauded her on becoming the nation's inaugural woman premier. In their discussions at the capital's official venue, the former president voiced optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to resolve international conflicts and reportedly pledged to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Agreements

Both nations announced a list of collaborative projects in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese companies are exploring investments of up to $400bn in the US.

Furthermore, Tokyo had previously pledged $550 billion in strategic US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from Trump's tariffs.

Such actions are viewed as possibly reducing any future demands from the US side for Japan to increase its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by promising to accelerate proposals to raise defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is legally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but would not exploit a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US largest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic figures in various states are planning map changes in reaction to GOP actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Trump said to the prime minister. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

The meeting underscores the ongoing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, security, and foreign policy areas.