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During a latest visit to Japan's capital, former American leader Donald Trump and the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi shared warm compliments and vowed to strengthen the already robust two-way relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first female prime minister. During their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president expressed confidence that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised his efforts to address global disputes and according to sources pledged to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Security Deals

The two nations announced a series of collaborative initiatives in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are exploring investments of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier pledged $550 billion in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain relief from Trump's tariffs.

These moves are viewed as potentially easing any future demands from Trump for Japan to increase its defense spending. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is legally not permitted. He stated he ‘would love’ to run again but won't exploit a VP loophole.
• Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s biggest government employees union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is now the second longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in various states are considering map changes in reaction to Republican efforts.

“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 also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he added.

The encounter underscores the continuing importance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional cooperation on economic, defense, and diplomatic fronts.