🔗 Share this article Trump along with Japanese Recently Appointed Premier Share Compliments and Vow to Reinforce ‘Remarkable’ Relationship During a latest visit to Tokyo, former US President Trump together with the Japanese new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi shared friendly praise and pledged to strengthen the already robust bilateral relations. Key Points from the Meeting Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on assuming the role of Japan's first female prime minister. During their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president expressed confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan. Takaichi, identified as a close associate of late Prime Minister Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to resolve global conflicts and according to sources pledged to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. Economic and Defense Agreements Both nations revealed a series of collaborative projects in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the US. Additionally, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in strategic American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an agreement to secure exemption from the former president's import duties. These actions are viewed as potentially reducing any future requests from Trump for Tokyo to increase its defense expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by committing to accelerate plans to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product. Additional Political Developments Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is constitutionally impossible. He stated he ‘would like’ to serve again but won't use a VP loophole. Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.” California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections. The head of America’s biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in US history. Republican leader Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race. Indiana governor Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts. Democratic figures in various states are planning redistricting in reaction to Republican efforts. “Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Donald Trump said to Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added. The encounter underscores the ongoing importance of the US-Japan alliance and paves the way for further collaboration on trade, security, and foreign policy fronts.