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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, ex- US President Donald Trump together with the Japanese recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged warm praise and pledged to strengthen the already strong bilateral relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump commended Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of Japan's inaugural female premier. During their talks at the capital's official venue, Trump voiced confidence that she would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of late Japanese leader Abe, praised his efforts to address global conflicts and according to sources pledged to put forward him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Economic and Defense Deals

Both nations announced a list of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and rare earths. Japan-based firms are considering investments of up to $400bn in the United States.

Additionally, Japan had earlier pledged $550bn in strategic American projects, loans, and assurances as part of an agreement to secure relief from the former president's tariffs.

These actions are viewed as potentially reducing any upcoming requests from the US side for Japan to boost its military expenditure. The prime minister addressed this by committing to accelerate plans to increase military budget to two percent of GDP.

Additional Political Developments

• Trump left the door open to a another term, though it is legally not permitted. He stated he ‘would love’ to run again but would not exploit a VP workaround.
• A Michigan representative Tlaib responded to Trump's 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 America’s biggest federal workers union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second longest in US history.
• Republican leader Johnson blasted Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries for supporting a contender in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Braun announced a special session to redraw electoral maps.
• Democratic leaders in several states are considering map changes in reaction 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.

This encounter underscores the continuing significance of the American-Japanese alliance and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, security, and foreign policy fronts.