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In the course of a latest visit to Japan's capital, former American leader Trump and Japan's recently elected Premier Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and vowed to enhance the currently strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on becoming the nation's inaugural female prime minister. In their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced confidence that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a protégée of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praised Trump's efforts to address global conflicts and reportedly vowed to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

The two governments revealed a list of joint initiatives in areas such as power, AI, and critical minerals. Japan-based companies are considering funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier pledged $550 billion in strategic American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure relief from Trump's tariffs.

Such actions are viewed as possibly reducing any future requests from the US side for Tokyo to increase its defense spending. The prime minister addressed this by committing to fast-track proposals to raise defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Other Political Developments

• Trump did not rule out to a another term, though it is constitutionally impossible. He stated he ‘would like’ to run again but won't exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The head of America’s biggest federal workers union called for an end to the federal closure, which is now the second longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson blasted Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition figures in various regions are planning redistricting in reaction to GOP actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he added.

The encounter underscores the continuing importance of the American-Japanese alliance and paves the way for additional collaboration on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.