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During a latest visit to Japan's capital, former American leader Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Premier Takaichi shared friendly praise and pledged to enhance the currently robust two-way ties.

Highlights from the Meeting

Trump praised Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first female premier. During their talks at the capital's Akasaka Palace, the former president expressed optimism 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, praised Trump's initiatives to resolve international disputes and reportedly vowed to put forward him for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Agreements

The two governments announced a list of joint projects in sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japanese firms are considering investments of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in long-term American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from the former president's tariffs.

Such actions are seen as possibly easing any upcoming requests from Trump for Tokyo to increase its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by promising to fast-track proposals to raise military budget to 2% of GDP.

Additional US Politics Updates

• Trump left the door open to a another term, although it is legally not permitted. He stated he ‘would like’ to serve again but won't use a VP loophole.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib responded to his comments, saying, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom indicated he will decide on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of America’s biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the government shutdown, which is now the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Johnson criticized Democratic leader Jeffries for endorsing a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• The governor of Indiana Mike Braun declared a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Opposition leaders in several regions are planning redistricting in reaction to Republican actions.

“Everything I know from Shinzo and others, you will be one of the great prime ministers,” Donald Trump told Takaichi. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

The encounter underscores the ongoing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for additional cooperation on economic, security, and diplomatic areas.