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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Premier Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and pledged to enhance the currently robust two-way relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural woman prime minister. During their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, the former president expressed optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of late Japanese leader Abe, applauded his efforts to resolve global conflicts and reportedly vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Deals

The two nations revealed a series of collaborative projects in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese companies are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Additionally, Japan had previously pledged $550 billion in strategic American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain relief from Trump's import duties.

These moves are viewed as possibly reducing any future demands from Trump for Japan to boost its defense expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by promising to fast-track plans to raise defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is legally impossible. He remarked he ‘would love’ to run again but would not exploit a vice presidential workaround.
• A Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib responded to his statements, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will decide on a White House bid 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 American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in various states are planning redistricting in reaction to Republican 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 also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

This encounter highlights the ongoing importance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional collaboration on economic, security, and diplomatic areas.