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In the course of a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Trump together with Japan's recently elected Premier Takaichi shared friendly praise and vowed to enhance the already strong bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Meeting

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first woman prime minister. During their discussions at Tokyo's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

Takaichi, who is a protégée of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised his initiatives to resolve global disputes and according to sources vowed to put forward Trump for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

The two governments announced a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as power, AI, and rare earths. Japanese companies are considering investments of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain relief from Trump's tariffs.

Such actions are seen as potentially reducing any upcoming requests from Trump for Tokyo to increase its military expenditure. The prime minister responded to this by promising to fast-track plans to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Other US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, though it is constitutionally impossible. He remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but would not exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in various regions are planning redistricting in reaction 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.

The meeting highlights the continuing significance of the US-Japan partnership and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.