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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, former American leader Donald Trump together with Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi shared friendly compliments and pledged to strengthen the currently strong bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of Japan's first woman prime minister. In their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, Trump voiced optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of late Japanese leader Abe, praised Trump's initiatives to resolve global disputes and according to sources vowed to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

The two governments revealed a series of collaborative projects in sectors such as power, AI, and rare earths. Japanese firms are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had previously pledged $550bn in strategic US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from the former president's import duties.

These moves are viewed as potentially reducing any upcoming demands from Trump for Japan to boost its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by promising to accelerate plans to raise military budget to two percent of gross domestic product.

Other US Politics Developments

• Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is constitutionally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't exploit a VP workaround.
• Michigan representative Tlaib responded to his statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will determine on a White House bid after the upcoming 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 Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun declared a special session to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic figures in various states are planning redistricting in reaction to Republican efforts.

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

This meeting highlights the continuing importance of the US-Japan partnership and sets the stage for additional collaboration on trade, security, and diplomatic fronts.