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During a recent visit to Tokyo, former US President Donald Trump and the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and pledged to enhance the already strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ figure and applauded her on becoming Japan's first female premier. In their talks at the capital's official venue, Trump expressed confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of the country.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of former Japanese leader Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to address international conflicts and according to sources vowed to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Security Agreements

Both nations revealed a series of joint projects in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based companies are exploring investments of up to $400bn in the United States.

Furthermore, Tokyo had previously pledged $550 billion in strategic US investments, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to secure relief from the former president's tariffs.

These actions are seen as possibly easing any future requests from the US side for Japan to increase its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by promising to fast-track proposals to increase defense spending to 2% of gross domestic product.

Other US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is legally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to run again but won't exploit a VP loophole.
• A Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib reacted to his statements, saying, “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 head of the US biggest government employees union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is currently the second longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted Democratic leader Jeffries for supporting a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Braun declared a special session to redraw congressional districts.
• Democratic leaders in several states are considering map changes in response to GOP actions.

“Based on what I’ve heard from Shinzo and others, you are destined to be an outstanding prime minister,” Trump told Takaichi. “I also want to congratulate you on becoming the first female prime minister. This is a significant achievement,” he continued.

This encounter highlights the continuing significance of the US-Japan alliance and sets the stage for additional cooperation on economic, security, and foreign policy areas.