🔗 Share this article Donald Trump along with Japan's New Prime Minister Share Praise and Vow to Strengthen ‘Extraordinary’ Bond During a recent trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Donald Trump and the Japanese recently elected Premier Takaichi shared friendly praise and vowed to enhance the currently robust bilateral ties. Highlights from the Encounter Donald Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ figure and congratulated her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural woman prime minister. In their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president voiced confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan. Takaichi, who is a close associate of former Prime Minister Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to resolve international disputes and reportedly vowed to nominate him for the prestigious award. Trade and Security Agreements Both governments announced a series of collaborative projects in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the United States. Furthermore, Japan had earlier pledged $550 billion in long-term US investments, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from the former president's import duties. Such actions are viewed as possibly easing any upcoming requests from Trump for Japan to increase its military expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by committing to fast-track proposals to increase military budget to two percent of gross domestic product. Additional US Politics Developments Trump did not rule out to a another term, though it is constitutionally impossible. He stated he ‘would like’ to serve again but won't use a vice presidential loophole. Michigan representative Tlaib responded to Trump's comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.” California Governor Newsom suggested he will decide on a White House bid after the upcoming elections. The leader of the US largest government employees union called for an end to the federal closure, which is now the second-longest in American history. Republican leader Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race. The governor of Indiana Mike Braun announced a legislative meeting to reconsider electoral maps. Opposition 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,” Donald Trump said to the prime minister. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued. This encounter underscores the continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for additional collaboration on trade, defense, and foreign policy fronts.