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During a latest visit to Japan's capital, ex- American leader Trump and the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi shared friendly praise and vowed to enhance the already robust bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Meeting

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first woman premier. In their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, the former president expressed optimism that she would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, who is a protégée of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised his efforts to address global disputes and according to sources pledged to nominate him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Agreements

Both nations announced a list of joint projects in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier pledged $550bn in long-term American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain relief from Trump's import duties.

These actions are viewed as potentially easing any upcoming demands from Trump for Tokyo to increase its military spending. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to increase military budget to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, though it is constitutionally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to run again but won't exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to Trump's statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s biggest government employees union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun declared a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition leaders in various regions are considering map changes in reaction 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’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

This encounter highlights the continuing significance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for further collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy fronts.