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In the course of a latest visit to Tokyo, ex- US President Donald Trump and Japan's new Premier Takaichi exchanged warm praise and vowed to strengthen the already strong two-way ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's first female premier. In their talks at the capital's official venue, the former president voiced optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of late Japanese leader Abe, praised Trump's efforts to address global disputes and according to sources vowed to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Agreements

Both governments revealed a list of joint initiatives in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Japan had previously committed $550bn in strategic US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure exemption from the former president's import duties.

Such actions are viewed as potentially reducing any future requests from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by promising to fast-track plans to raise defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is legally not permitted. He stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan representative Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The leader of America’s largest government employees union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in various states are considering redistricting in reaction to Republican actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald Trump said to Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

The encounter underscores the ongoing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for additional cooperation on trade, defense, and foreign policy fronts.