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In the course of a recent trip to Tokyo, former American leader Donald Trump and the Japanese new Premier Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and vowed to strengthen the already strong two-way relations.

Key Points from the Encounter

Trump praised Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's first woman premier. In their talks at the capital's official venue, Trump voiced confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of the country.

Takaichi, identified as a protégée of former Japanese leader Abe, applauded his initiatives to address international conflicts and according to sources pledged to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

The two governments revealed a series of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japanese companies are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had earlier pledged $550 billion in long-term American projects, financing, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from the former president's tariffs.

Such actions are viewed as potentially easing any future requests from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military expenditure. Takaichi responded to this by committing to fast-track proposals to increase military budget to two percent of GDP.

Other US Politics Updates

• Trump left the door open to a third term, although it is constitutionally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to serve again but would not exploit a VP loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to Trump's statements, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• Gavin Newsom suggested he will determine on a 2028 presidential run after the upcoming elections.
• The head of America’s largest government employees union called for an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic figures in various regions are planning map changes in reaction 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 added.

This meeting highlights the continuing significance of the American-Japanese partnership and paves the way for additional collaboration on economic, defense, and foreign policy fronts.