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In the course of a latest trip to Japan's capital, former US President Donald Trump and Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and vowed to enhance the currently strong bilateral relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's inaugural female prime minister. During their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, the former president expressed optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

The prime minister, identified as a protégée of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded his initiatives to resolve international disputes and reportedly pledged to nominate him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Security Agreements

Both nations revealed a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese companies are exploring funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Japan had previously committed $550 billion in strategic American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from Trump's import duties.

These actions are viewed 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 increase military budget to two percent of GDP.

Additional Political Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, though it is legally not permitted. Trump remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but would not exploit a VP workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to his comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run 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.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic figures in several regions are planning redistricting in response to GOP efforts.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Trump told Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

This meeting highlights the ongoing importance of the US-Japan alliance and paves the way for additional collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy areas.