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During a recent visit to Japan's capital, former US President Donald Trump and Japan's new Premier Sanae Takaichi exchanged friendly compliments and pledged to enhance the already robust bilateral ties.

Highlights from the Encounter

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's inaugural female prime minister. In their talks at the capital's official venue, the former president voiced optimism that she would become one of the ‘outstanding leaders’ of Japan.

The prime minister, who is a close associate of late Prime Minister Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to address international conflicts and reportedly vowed to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Security Agreements

The two nations announced a list of collaborative initiatives in areas such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are considering funding of up to $400bn in the US.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier committed $550 billion in long-term US investments, financing, and assurances as part of an agreement to obtain exemption from the former president's tariffs.

Such moves are seen as potentially easing any future demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military spending. Takaichi responded to this by committing to accelerate proposals to raise military budget to 2% of GDP.

Other US Politics Developments

• Donald Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is legally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to run again but would not use a vice presidential workaround.
• Michigan congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responded to his 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 biggest federal workers union called for an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in US history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the NYC mayoral election.
• Indiana governor Mike Braun announced a special session to reconsider electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in several regions are considering map changes in response to GOP efforts.

“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.

The meeting highlights the ongoing significance of the American-Japanese alliance and sets the stage for further cooperation on economic, defense, and diplomatic areas.