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During a recent visit to Tokyo, former American leader Donald Trump and the Japanese new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi shared friendly praise and vowed to enhance the currently strong bilateral relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural female prime minister. In their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, Trump voiced optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, who is a close associate of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's efforts to resolve global disputes and according to sources vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Defense Deals

Both nations announced a series of joint initiatives in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had previously pledged $550bn in strategic American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from Trump's import duties.

These actions are seen as potentially reducing any future demands from the US side for Japan to increase its defense spending. The prime minister addressed this by committing to accelerate proposals to raise military budget to 2% of GDP.

Other Political Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is legally not permitted. He stated he ‘would like’ to serve again but would not exploit a VP loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, saying, “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 largest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second-longest in US history.
• Republican leader Mike Johnson blasted opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic figures in various states are considering redistricting in response to GOP efforts.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” 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 added.

This encounter highlights the ongoing significance of the American-Japanese alliance and sets the stage for further cooperation on trade, defense, and diplomatic areas.