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In the course of a recent visit to Japan's capital, former American leader Trump together with Japan's new Premier Takaichi exchanged warm praise and vowed to enhance the currently strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and applauded her on becoming the nation's inaugural woman premier. During their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president expressed confidence that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, identified as a close associate of former Prime Minister Abe, praised Trump's efforts to resolve global disputes and reportedly pledged to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

The two governments announced a series of joint initiatives in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are considering funding of up to $400bn in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had previously pledged $550 billion in strategic US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to obtain exemption from the former president's import duties.

These actions are seen as possibly reducing any upcoming demands from the US side for Japan to increase its defense expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by promising to accelerate plans to raise military budget to two percent of GDP.

Other Political Updates

• Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is legally impossible. He remarked he ‘would like’ to serve again but won't use a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US largest government employees union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in several states are planning map changes in response to Republican actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

The encounter highlights the ongoing importance of the US-Japan alliance and paves the way for further cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.