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In the course of a latest trip to Tokyo, former American leader Donald Trump and Japan's recently elected Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged friendly praise and vowed to enhance the already strong two-way relations.

Highlights from the Meeting

Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Takaichi as a ‘great’ leader and applauded her on assuming the role of the nation's first female prime minister. In their talks at the capital's official venue, the former president voiced confidence that Takaichi would prove to be one of the ‘great prime ministers’ of Japan.

Takaichi, identified as a close associate of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, applauded Trump's efforts to resolve global disputes and according to sources pledged to put forward Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Trade and Defense Deals

Both nations revealed a series of collaborative initiatives in sectors such as power, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals. Japan-based firms are exploring funding of up to $400 billion in the United States.

Additionally, Tokyo had earlier committed $550bn in long-term American projects, loans, and guarantees as part of an agreement to obtain relief from the former president's tariffs.

Such moves are viewed as possibly reducing any upcoming demands from the US side for Tokyo to boost its military spending. The prime minister responded to this by committing to accelerate plans to raise defense spending to two percent of GDP.

Additional US Politics Developments

• Trump left the door open to a third term, though it is constitutionally not permitted. Trump stated he ‘would love’ to run again but won't exploit a VP loophole.
• Michigan congresswoman Tlaib responded to his statements, declaring, “Under no circumstances will we allow that.”
• California Governor Newsom suggested he will determine on a White House bid after the upcoming elections.
• The head of the US largest government employees union demanded an end to the federal closure, which is currently the second-longest in American history.
• Republican leader Johnson criticized opposition figure Hakeem Jeffries for endorsing a candidate in the New York City mayor’s race.
• Indiana governor Braun declared a legislative meeting to reconsider congressional districts.
• Democratic figures in several states are planning redistricting in reaction to Republican actions.

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

The meeting underscores the continuing importance of the American-Japanese partnership and sets the stage for further cooperation on trade, security, and diplomatic areas.