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In the course of a latest visit to Tokyo, former American leader Trump and Japan's new Premier Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and vowed to enhance the already robust two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on becoming the nation's first female premier. During their discussions at the capital's official venue, Trump expressed optimism that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of former Prime Minister Abe, applauded Trump's initiatives to address global disputes and according to sources pledged to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

The two nations announced a list of collaborative initiatives in areas such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japanese firms are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Tokyo had previously pledged $550 billion in strategic US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from Trump's tariffs.

Such actions are seen as potentially reducing any future demands from the US side for Japan to increase its military expenditure. Takaichi addressed this by committing to fast-track plans to raise defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is legally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't exploit a VP workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will decide on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US biggest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson blasted opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic figures in several states are planning redistricting in response to Republican actions.

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

The encounter underscores the continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for further cooperation on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.