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In the course of a latest visit to Japan's capital, former American leader Donald Trump and the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and pledged to enhance the currently robust two-way relations.

Key Points from the Meeting

Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's inaugural female premier. During their discussions at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president expressed optimism that Takaichi would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's initiatives to resolve international conflicts and according to sources vowed to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

The two governments announced a series of collaborative projects in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had previously committed $550 billion in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from the former president's tariffs.

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

Additional Political Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a another term, though it is legally not permitted. He remarked he ‘would love’ to serve again but won't use a vice presidential loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid after the 2026 midterm elections.
• The head of America’s biggest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Braun declared a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition leaders in several regions are considering 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 said to Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

This encounter underscores the continuing significance of the US-Japan partnership and paves the way for additional cooperation on economic, defense, and diplomatic fronts.