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In the course of a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Donald Trump and the Japanese new Premier Sanae Takaichi shared warm praise and vowed to strengthen the already strong two-way relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and applauded her on becoming the nation's inaugural woman prime minister. During their discussions at Tokyo's official venue, Trump voiced optimism that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of late Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, praised his efforts to address international conflicts and according to sources pledged to nominate him for the prestigious award.

Trade and Defense Deals

The two governments revealed a series of joint initiatives in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had previously pledged $550 billion in strategic US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to secure exemption from Trump's tariffs.

These actions are viewed as possibly easing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its defense spending. The prime minister responded to this by promising to accelerate proposals to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Other US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, although it is legally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not exploit a vice presidential loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to his comments, declaring, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will decide on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US biggest government employees union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a special session to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in various regions 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,” 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 highlights the ongoing importance of the American-Japanese alliance and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.