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In the course of a latest visit to Japan's capital, ex- American leader Donald Trump together with Japan's recently elected Premier Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and pledged to enhance the already strong bilateral relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first female premier. In their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

The prime minister, identified as a close associate of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised his efforts to resolve global disputes and reportedly vowed to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Deals

The two nations announced a series of joint projects in areas such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japanese firms are exploring funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Furthermore, Tokyo had previously pledged $550 billion in long-term US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from Trump's import duties.

These actions are viewed as possibly easing any upcoming demands from Trump for Tokyo to increase its military spending. The prime minister responded to this by committing to fast-track plans to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, though it is constitutionally impossible. He stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not use a VP workaround.
• Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted 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 White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The head of the US biggest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in various regions are considering redistricting in response to Republican actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Donald Trump told 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 ongoing significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.