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During a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- American leader Donald Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi shared friendly praise and vowed to strengthen the currently robust bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and applauded her on becoming Japan's first female prime minister. In their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, Trump expressed optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded his efforts to resolve international conflicts and reportedly vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Deals

Both governments announced a list of collaborative projects in sectors such as energy, AI, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are considering funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Japan had previously committed $550 billion in strategic American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure relief from Trump's import duties.

Such moves are seen as potentially reducing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by promising to accelerate proposals to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP.

Additional Political Updates

• Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is legally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would like’ to run again but would not exploit a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of America’s largest federal workers union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in several states are considering redistricting in response to GOP actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald Trump said to 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 meeting highlights the ongoing importance of the US-Japan partnership and sets the stage for further collaboration on trade, security, and diplomatic fronts.