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During a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Trump and Japan's recently elected Premier Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and pledged to strengthen the currently strong two-way relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on becoming the nation's first woman prime minister. In their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of late Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's efforts to resolve international conflicts and reportedly pledged to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Agreements

Both governments announced a series of collaborative initiatives in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Furthermore, Japan had previously committed $550bn in strategic US investments, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure relief from Trump's tariffs.

Such actions are seen as possibly reducing any future requests from the US side for Japan to increase its military spending. Takaichi responded to this by promising to fast-track proposals to raise military budget to two percent of GDP.

Other Political Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, though it is legally impossible. He stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not use a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib responded to his statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun declared a special session to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic figures in several regions are considering redistricting in response 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’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

This meeting underscores the continuing importance of the American-Japanese alliance and paves the way for further collaboration on trade, security, and diplomatic areas.