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In the course of a latest visit to Tokyo, ex- American leader Trump together with the Japanese new Prime Minister Takaichi shared friendly compliments and vowed to enhance the currently strong bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on becoming the nation's first female prime minister. During their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, Trump expressed confidence that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a close associate of former Japanese leader Abe, applauded Trump's initiatives to address global disputes and reportedly pledged to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

Both governments announced a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese companies are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had previously pledged $550 billion in strategic US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain relief from the former president's import duties.

Such moves are seen as potentially reducing any future requests from Trump for Japan to boost its defense expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track plans to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Developments

• Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is constitutionally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not use a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's statements, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The head of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Braun announced a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in various states are considering redistricting in response to GOP actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Donald Trump said to Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

The meeting underscores the continuing significance of the American-Japanese alliance and paves the way for further collaboration on trade, security, and foreign policy fronts.