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In the course of a latest visit to Japan's capital, ex- US President Donald Trump together with Japan's new Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged warm compliments and pledged to enhance the currently robust bilateral relations.

Key Points from the Meeting

Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘exceptional’ leader and congratulated her on becoming Japan's first woman premier. In their talks at Tokyo's official venue, Trump voiced confidence that she would become one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of late Japanese leader Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to address international disputes and according to sources vowed to nominate Trump for the prestigious award.

Economic and Defense Deals

Both nations revealed a list of collaborative projects in areas such as energy, AI, and rare earths. Japanese firms are considering funding of up to $400 billion in the US.

Furthermore, Tokyo had earlier pledged $550bn in strategic American projects, financing, and assurances as part of an arrangement to secure relief from the former president's import duties.

Such moves are viewed as possibly easing any future requests from the US side for Japan to boost its defense spending. Takaichi responded to this by committing to accelerate proposals to raise military budget to 2% of gross domestic product.

Other US Politics Updates

• Donald Trump did not rule out to a third term, although it is legally impossible. Trump stated he ‘would like’ to run again but won't exploit a VP workaround.
• Michigan representative Rashida Tlaib reacted to Trump's comments, saying, “No way in hell we’re going to let that happen.”
• Gavin Newsom indicated he will determine on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The leader of the US largest government employees union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized opposition figure Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the NYC mayoral election.
• The governor of Indiana Braun announced a legislative meeting to redraw congressional districts.
• Opposition figures in several states 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 said to the prime minister. “I’d also like to congratulate you on being the first woman prime minister. It’s a big deal,” he continued.

This encounter highlights the continuing importance of the American-Japanese alliance and sets the stage for further collaboration on economic, security, and foreign policy areas.