🔗 Share this article Donald Trump and Japan's Recently Appointed Prime Minister Exchange Praise and Commit to Reinforce ‘Extraordinary’ Relationship In the course of a recent visit to Tokyo, former American leader Donald Trump together with Japan's recently elected Premier Takaichi exchanged warm praise and pledged to strengthen the already robust bilateral ties. Key Points from the Encounter Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural female premier. During their talks at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump expressed confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country. The prime minister, identified as a protégée of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's initiatives to address global disputes and according to sources vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize. Economic and Defense Deals The two nations announced a series of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400 billion in the United States. Additionally, Japan had previously committed $550 billion in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to secure relief from the former president's import duties. These moves are seen as potentially easing any upcoming demands from Trump for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by committing to accelerate proposals to raise military budget to two percent of gross domestic product. Other Political Updates Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, though it is legally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would like’ to run again but won't exploit a vice presidential loophole. Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to his statements, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.” California Governor Newsom suggested he will determine on a White House bid after the upcoming elections. The head of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in US history. House Speaker Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the NYC mayoral election. Indiana governor Braun declared a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps. Opposition leaders in several regions are planning map changes in response to Republican actions. “Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” 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 continued. The encounter highlights the continuing importance of the American-Japanese alliance and paves the way for further collaboration on economic, security, and foreign policy areas.