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During a recent visit to Tokyo, former American leader Donald Trump together with Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and vowed to enhance the currently strong two-way ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

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

The prime minister, who is a close associate of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded his efforts to resolve global disputes and according to sources vowed to put forward him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Agreements

Both nations revealed a series of joint initiatives in areas such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier committed $550bn in long-term US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to secure exemption from Trump's tariffs.

These moves are seen as possibly reducing any upcoming demands from the US side for Japan to boost its military expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by promising to accelerate proposals to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Other US Politics Developments

• Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is constitutionally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not exploit a VP loophole.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will determine on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The head of the US largest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• House Speaker Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a special session to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in various regions are considering redistricting in reaction to GOP 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 added.

The encounter highlights the continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.